From the Guidelines
To calculate the percentage of weight loss in a newborn, subtract the current weight from the birth weight, divide by the birth weight, and multiply by 100, with a weight loss of more than 10% indicating a need for medical evaluation, as suggested by the study published in Pediatrics in 2004 1. When assessing the percentage of weight loss in newborns, it is essential to consider the normal range of weight loss, which is typically between 5-10% of birth weight, as noted in the study 1.
Key Points to Consider
- Newborns usually experience their maximum weight loss by day 3, with an average loss of 6.1% ± 2.5% of their birth weight, according to the data from the study 1.
- A weight loss of more than 10% by day 3 may indicate inadequate intake and warrants further evaluation and monitoring, as suggested by the study 1.
- In addition to calculating weight loss percentage, other signs of adequate intake in breastfed infants include 4 to 6 thoroughly wet diapers in 24 hours and the passage of 3 to 4 stools per day by the fourth day, as indicated in the study 1.
Calculation Example
For example, if a baby weighed 3500 grams at birth and now weighs 3150 grams, the calculation would be: (3500-3150)/3500 × 100 = 10% weight loss, which would prompt medical attention, as it exceeds the 10% threshold mentioned in the study 1.
Clinical Implications
Daily weight checks are crucial until the baby begins gaining weight, typically by day 4-5 of life, and most healthy newborns should regain their birth weight by 10-14 days of age, highlighting the importance of monitoring weight loss percentage in the context of overall newborn care, as implied by the study 1.
From the Research
Calculation to Check Percentage of Weight Loss at Birth in Newborn
There are no research papers provided to assist in answering this question. The studies available are related to oral versus intravenous rehydration in various contexts, including children with gastroenteritis, athletes, and adults with short bowel syndrome.
- These studies do not provide information on calculating percentage of weight loss at birth in newborns.
- They focus on the effectiveness of oral rehydration therapy (ORT) compared to intravenous fluid therapy (IVF) in different populations and settings 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- The calculations and methods discussed in these studies are related to assessing dehydration and rehydration in patients, not specifically to newborn weight loss.
- Therefore, there is no relevant information available from these studies to answer the question about calculating percentage of weight loss at birth in newborns.