Eguria

THE PREMATURE CHILD A child that is born before 36 weeks after conception is regarded to be premature, 40 weeks being considered full item (slightly more than 9 months). Another criterion for determining prematurity is that of weight. Any child born weighing less than 5 Ibs. 8 oz. is classified as premature. The closer to full term the fetus is, the bigger and more highly developed will be its organs and body systems. Its chances for survival, therefore, are proportionately increased. Those born within the 32 to 36-week period will usually weigh from 3½ to 4 pounds. The infant will be weak, but can manage to cry for its food when hungry. Careful supervision and nursing care are needed if the baby is to live. When birth occurs 28 to 32 weeks after conception the fetal infant will weigh about two pounds. An infant of this size at maturity would require constant medical supervision for survival, because it cannot nurse and has particular difficulty maintaining a constant body t...