Premie Glossary
Brady
Bradycardia, defined as a heart rate slower than normal, is common in premature infants and can be dangerous for their development. Premature babies often have immature cardiac and respiratory systems, so their heart rates frequently drop for short periods. Sustained or severe bradycardia, however, requires medical attention. Bradycardia in preemies can be caused by underdeveloped heart rate control mechanisms, breathing problems, low body temperature, infections, or medications.
IUGR
IUGR stands for intrauterine growth restriction. It refers to a condition in which a baby's growth slows or ceases during pregnancy. A baby with IUGR does not grow at a normal rate in the womb and is smaller in size than most babies of the same gestational age.
DeSats
When the blood does not have enough oxygen, it is called a desaturation. Desaturations can cause a bluish tint to the lips or skin and cause a baby to lose tone, becoming “floppy.”