Few times in the life of parents are associated with as much anticipation, excitement, and anxiety as pregnancy and the newborn period. Likewise, a stunning number of advances have been made over the last several decades in our understanding of and ability to treat and prevent disorders identified during these two critical periods. Practicing pediatricians must be knowledgeable about this new information as they will often be the first to be questioned by a parent, the first to have the opportunity to identify a potential problem, and/or the first to reassure a parent that a condition is a normal variant. For the parents of a neonate who needs additional care, the articles on current approaches to common illnesses, medications, and diagnostic procedures will enable the pediatrician to offer comfort through knowledge-based explanation.
This thoughtful and carefully compiled issue thoroughly reviews normal fetal and neonatal growth and development, screening procedures, and the identification of abnormalities. This is a “must read” issue for pediatricians who have contact with families during the prenatal period and/or with neonates and their families. Written in a practical manner, the issue carefully reviews established procedures and approaches as well as describes new diagnostic approaches and criteria.
A careful reading of these articles will well equip you to make a substantial difference in the life of young parents as they welcome their newborn into the world!
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