Care of the Infant with Sclerema Neonatorum

Abstract

High-risk infants are particularly prone to sepsis which can be accompanied by sclerema neonatorum. This condition is manifested by skin hardening. Causation of hardening of a sick infant's skin must be identified for appropriate treatment to be implemented. Nursing care of the infant with sclerema is very complex. Throughout the course of the disease, the infant frequently requires antimicrobial therapy, ventilatory support, exchange transfusions, precise intake and output measurements, and temperature control. Psychosocial support for the family and infant is also an important part of the nurse's role. In spite of standard therapy, the mortality rate for infants with sclerema remains high. New advances, such as exchange transfusions, give some hope for the survival of these very ill infants.