After resuscitation, the preterm baby’s temperature must still be closely monitored as the infant cannot maintain a normal temperature of 36.5–37.5°C. The preterm infant must remain in a servo-controlled radiant warmer. Polyethylene plastic wrap may prevent heat loss in some preterm infants and most of the very preterm babies.

A preterm infant wrapped in polyethylene wrap.¹⁵

The preterm infant’s blood glucose levels must also be closely tracked. Preterm infants are prone to hypoglycemia since they have inadequate nutrient reserves and underdeveloped compensatory mechanisms. An IV infusion of dextrose solution is an appropriate treatment for hypoglycemia.

Preterm infants are prone to bradycardia and apnea because their respiratory control mechanisms are unstable. Apnea and bradycardia can signify hypothermia, hypoxia, hypercapnia, electrolyte imbalances, hyperglycemia, or increased blood acid levels. When episodes of bradycardia and apnea increase, the team must identify the cause(s) and intervene.