Newborn infants are at risk for becoming dehydrated secondary to insensitive fluid loss. Identification of risk factors for increased loss allows for appropriate monitoring and fluid administration.
Risk factors for insensitive fluid loss in a neonate:
(1) prematurity
(2) high ambient temperature
(3) low ambient humidity
(4) phototherapy for hyperbilirubinemia
(5) radiant heater
(6) excessive clothing
Premature infants lose more water through the skin than older infants because:
(1) the relative surface area of the skin for body mass is higher
(2) the skin is immature
Body Weight in kilograms
Insensitive Water Loss in mL per kg per day
< 1.00
65 +/- 5
1.00 - 1.25
62.5 +/- 2.5
1.251 - 1.50
37.5 +/- 7.5
1.501 - 1.75
22.5 +/- 7.5
1.751 - 2.00
17.5 +/- 2.5
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