Complications in the transition from fetal to neonatal life

The transition from fetus to neonate is a time of significant physiologic adaptation. In addition to the normal physiologic tasks of transition, some neonates must also cope with underlying congenital abnormalities, birth injury, or disease. Careful assessment and astute nursing care are needed during the period of transition to ensure that the neonate who is experiencing problems with transition is recognized and appropriate interventions are initiated. This article examines the physiology of transition and discusses factors placing the neonate at risk of illness. A plan of care for neonates experiencing symptoms of underlying disease during transition is presented.