ABSTRACT
Renal function in the neonate, though differing from that of more mature subjects, is still sufficient to maintain normal homeostasis. The adult number of nephrons within the kidney is only achieved by 34-35 weeks’ gestation, and even then they are shorter and less functionally mature (Blackburn and Loper 1992). Partly, but not entirely, as a result of this fluid and electrolyte disturbances are common in newborn infants. Babies born at the extremes of prematurity are particularly vulnerable, but term infants are not exempt, and renal pathology is commonly seen secondary to sepsis or ischaemia. These problems may be further compounded by the administration of nephrotoxic chemotherapy. As it is the role of the neonatal nurse to administer fluid therapy, monitoring of its adequacy and detection of adverse signs are mandatory if problems are to be avoided. To achieve this the nurse requires a robust understanding of the subject matter.
