I saw a 18 day old today, birth weight was 8-13.5, weight today 6-14.5 (both
weights on frequently calibrated digital scales), so weight loss of 22%.
Doctor had seen him  yesterday in the office for a routine 2-week visit (wt.
7-1 on his scale) and was thunderstruck, but since baby was not dehydrated he
sent them to see me today.  Baby probably isn't dehydrated because dad had
been giving about 4 oz. of water at night to settle him.

My question is about electrolytes, since I remember hearing that with severe
weight loss they were likely to be off.  I inquired about this of the family
doc when I reported back to him, but he didn't seem concerned.  Baby took a
total of 57cc in my office between breast and supplement and was sent home
with instructions to feed every three hours and how much, but is there
something I should be watching for when I see them again?

Becky Krumwiede, RN, IBCLC
Appleton, Wisconsin
(feeling stupid, but I've *never* seen a baby with this severe a weight loss!)

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