Hello experts.  I got a call this morning regarding assessment of dehydration in the
newborn.  Does anyone know of a research-based instrument on systematic
evaluation of hydration (dehydration) in the breastfed infant?  I suggested
she (grad student) start by looking at physiology of the newborn's cardiac,
renal, and GI systems first.  Any MDs or physiologists know of a specific
assessment tool?

She also asked a critical question, "What is the (current)
incidence of dehydration?"  Is any one counting?  I would think lots of people
 are scrambling to study that one - thought I'd ask LACTNETTERS for some help.

Any leads would be appreciated.  Thanks in advance for your input.
Martha Pitzer
Martha (Columbus, Ohio) Pitzer, RN, PhD
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