SKIN CARE IN THE PREMATURE INFANT

Course overview

Skin in the newborn serves to control transepidermal water loss (TEWL), support thermoregulation, allow for tactile stimulation, and provide barrier protection against infection and environmental toxins and irritants. These functions are compromised in premature infants. This continuing education module is designed to give the reader/learner an increased understanding of the skin care in the premature infant, the risk factors for injury to the skin, and to aid in caring for premature infants. Readers may explore any or all of the topics. One contact hour of continuing education credit is available for those who successfully complete the post-test and evaluation form.