Neonatal disseminated intravascular coagulation

Bleeding in the neonate can be a life-threatening emergency. Quick action is necessary to determine the cause of bleeding, which determines how the infant will be treated. Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) is uncontrolled, simultaneous bleeding and clotting occurring as a secondary disorder in sick neonates. Knowledge of the complex physiologic mechanisms at work to maintain hemostasis contributes to the proper nursing care of infants at risk for DIC and better outcomes.