[Characterization of full term newborns with hypernatremic dehydration].

Area of Science:

• Neonatology
• Pediatric Endocrinology
• Public Health

Background:

• Hypernatremic neonatal dehydration is a severe condition with increasing incidence.
• It leads to significant complications and necessitates newborn hospitalization.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the clinical and laboratory characteristics of term-newborns diagnosed with hypernatremic dehydration.
• To identify key factors associated with this condition in newborns.

Main Methods:

• A descriptive observational study was conducted on term newborns hospitalized for hypernatremic dehydration between 2014 and 2016.
• Inclusion criteria included newborns over 37 weeks gestation exhibiting dehydration signs and serum sodium > 145 mEq/L.
• Sociodemographic and biochemical data were collected and analyzed.

Main Results:

• The study included 43 neonates, with 60.5% born to primiparous mothers and 90% exclusively breastfed, often with reported feeding problems (76.7%).
• Average weight loss was 15.3%, with 65.1% having public insurance. Clinical dehydration signs were present in 65.1% and neurological signs in 83.5%.
• Average serum sodium on admission was 155 mEq/L, with a mean correction rate of 7.74 mEq/L in 24 hours. Average hospital stay was 4 days.

Conclusions:

• Feeding problems (76%) and primiparous mothers (88.4%) were significant factors.
• Despite 90.6% receiving exclusive breastfeeding, these challenges highlight the need for professional awareness.
• Findings support timely identification, recognition of warning signs, and proactive post-discharge preventive measures.