a. The premature infant is especially susceptible to some major illnesses.

(1) Respiratory distress syndrome/Hyaline membrane disease.

(2) Bronchopulmonary dysplasia – emphysematous changes which occur as a result of O2 toxicity.

(3) Pulmonary dysmaturity.

(4) Retrolental fibroplasia.

(5) Hypoglycemia.

(6) Sepsis.

(7) Anemia.

b. There may be risk for failure to thrive as the baby grows older because of early:

(1) Feeding problems.

(2) Infection.

(3) Hemorrhage.

(4) Jaundice.

(5) Delayed mother/infant bonding.