What is the major cause of heat loss in newborns?

The major cause of heat loss in newborns is largely attributed to their increased surface area to body weight ratio. Newborns have a higher ratio of surface area relative to their body mass compared to older children and adults. This means that they lose heat more rapidly through their skin because there's more surface exposed for heat loss compared to the amount of body tissue that can generate heat.

In addition, the skin of newborns is thinner and more permeable than that of older children and adults, which can further contribute to increased heat loss. This physiological characteristic highlights the importance of maintaining an appropriate thermal environment for newborns to prevent hypothermia. Providing adequate warmth is vital for their metabolic and physiological stability, especially since they have limited ability to regulate their own body temperature effectively in the first days and weeks of life.

Understanding this concept is essential for neonatal care providers as it informs strategies for thermal management in the NICU, such as utilizing incubators, heated blankets, and ensuring an appropriately warm environment to safeguard the delicate balance of newborns' body temperature.