Under 26 Weeks

• Unable to maintain temperature without heat source.
• 30-60 breaths per minute if able.
• Will require respiratory support to maintain respirations.
• Heart rate 120-160 beats per minute depending on activity.
• Mostly twitchy, jerky movements and startles easily.Does not offer much resistance when handled and has low muscle tone. Arms and legs extended outwards.
• If you attempt to alert a baby at this stage it will disorganize all body systems Eyes may be still sealed shut. Unable to tighten lids well to protect against the light. Does not focus on anything and eyes may be disorganized and float a bit.
• All major structures to hear are basically in place by 25 weeks.May become disorganized to sounds around to the sounds around them.
• Skin is very fragile and sensitive. Touch can cause the baby to become disorganized.
• Shows low tolerance for social interaction.