Bicarbonate and Chloride Equilibrium and Acid-Base Balance in the Neonate

MAINTENANCE OF ACID-BASE equilibrium in the neonate is a challenge in the face of illness or prematurity. Neonatal growth and development and the proper functioning of all organ systems of the body are dependent on maintaining a normal serum pH. Neonates encounter in the normal transitional period many stresses that can cause acid-base imbalance. In addition, premature neonates are more susceptible to acid-base imbalance because their compensatory responses are limited. Factors associated with acid-base imbalance seen in the newborn period include respiratory distress, sepsis, hypovolemia, perinatal stressors, and prematurity.^1–4