Most neonates are very small and loose water very easily. When they loose water their sodium (normal sodium is 135-145) is increased causing electrolyte imbalances. When their sodium is increased, indicating that they are dry we place a substance called aquaphor on them to keep the moisture in and maintain a normal sodium level. When the sodium is low, indicating it is diluted and the baby is holding on to water, the aquaphor is withheld. It is very important to monitor lab values periodically to ensure the infants sodium level is within the normal range.
Reference:
Merenstein, G.B., Gardner, S.L. (2006). Handbook of Neonatal Intensive Care (6th ed.). St. Louis, MO: Mosby Elsevier.
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