The neonate at birth represents the culmination of genetic, antepartal, and intrapartal factors that affect its immediate and future well-being.

Many neonates, when born, have already been introduced to in utero insults and birth trauma, which severely jeopardized their future welfare. Their survival, and perhaps their quality of life, is entrusted to the knowledge, skill, and expertise of the health care team.

The practical nurse performs a vital role in caring for the sick neonate. Constant attention must be directed to the accurate observation of the neonate so that significant changes may be reported immediately. This lesson will consist of twelve problems of the neonate.