Introduction
Infant
remains secure in natural environment inside mother’s womb. The birth process
is difficult and traumatic for the infant. Post birth the environment is
entirely different that necessitates adjustment with the new environs which is
colder, brighter, and louder, and where he or she will experience hunger and
thirst. Adjustment and adaptation come with challenges with which infant has to
deal with.
Adjustment Process
Infants
must make four major adjustments before they can resume their developmental
progress. Failure to adjust with environment can be fatal. During the
adjustment period the development and growth almost stops. Instead, the infant
remains on a plateau or may even regress to a lower stage of development
(Imbalife.com).
1. Temperature
Changes Adjustment – The difference between
internal temperature (100 degrees F or 37.78 degree Celsius) and external
temperature requires quick adjustment.
2. Respiratory
Adjustment – Prior to birth umbilical cord provides
oxygen to baby but after birth when the umbilical cord is detached, the infants
must begin to breathe. Delay can be fatal.
3. Elimination
Adjustment – The infant’s elimination organs are
required to start functioning soon after birth that helps in removal of waste
from the body. Prior to the birth the waste were eliminated through umbilical
cord.
4. Nourishment
Adjustment – Prior to birth umbilical cord provides
nourishment to baby but after birth when the umbilical cord is detached, the
infants get nourishment by sucking and swallowing. These reflexes are less
developed at birth resulting in lesser nourishment than is needed which affects
the weight.
Potential Implications of Adjustment Failure
Post
birth period is transitional period (13 days) where infant is highly vulnerable
to following challenges: -
1. For
the first week after the birth infant tends to lose weight rapidly.
2. Manifestation
of differentiated and disorganized behavioural pattern for almost a week. It
occurs due to disturbance in cranial circulation and body homeostasis.
3. Chances
of infection and organ failure.
4. High
infant mortality rate. The mother is the primary care giver hence, must be made
aware of these issues beforehand so that she can deal with care. The family
members must also be sensitive to her needs and make necessary arrangements to
keep mother and child safe and healthy.
References:
1. NCERT,
XI Psychology Text book.
2. https://www.imbalife.com/major-adjustment-of-infancy-and-different-kinds-of-birth.
3. https://opentextbc.ca/anatomyandphysiology/chapter/28-5-adjustments-of-the-infant-at-birth-and-postnatal-stages
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