Adaptation to extrauterine life is one of the most important steps in the life cycle because, for many systems in the body, birth precipitates dramatic changes in function. ... Adding further to the vulnerability of the newborn period, many of the digestive and absorptive functions of the newborn are incompletely developed (Schmitz, 1991). ... The relatively high amount of water, low amount of subcutaneous fat, and the proportionately large surface area explain why precautions must be taken to keep the infant well hydrated and warm. ... Protein provides amino acids and energy for the fo...

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