By understanding the four mechanisms of heat transfer (convection,conduction,radiation,and evaporation),the nurse can create an environment for the infant that prevents temperature instability.Which significant symptoms will the infant display when experiencing cold stress?

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The infant has minimal-to-no fat stores.During times of cold stress,the skin becomes mottled and acrocyanosis develops,progressing to cyanosis.Even if the infant is being cared for on a radiant warmer or in an isolette,the nurse's role is to observe the infant frequently to prevent heat loss and to respond quickly if signs and symptoms of cold stress occur.The respiratory rate increases,followed by periods of apnea.The infant initially tries to conserve heat and burns more calories,after which the metabolic system goes into overdrive.In the preterm infant who is experiencing heat loss,the heart rate initially increases,followed by periods of bradycardia.In the term infant,increased physical activity is the natural response to heat loss.However,in a term infant who is experiencing respiratory distress or in a preterm infant,physical activity is decreased.

By Understanding the Four Mechanisms of Heat Transfer (Convection,conduction,radiation,and Evaporation),the