Calara, Matthew

BSN 2 9&10
JOURNAL READING

During our 3 days duty, I was assigned to monitor and take care of my patient
which has a diagnosis of Low birth weight. Low birth weight in babies is something I’m
curious about, and it’s caused me to reflect on the many factors that go into this important
health issue. As I dive deeper into the complexities of low birth weight, I’m filled with
urgency and a desire to understand and solve the issues that mothers and babies face.
Low birth weight, defined as a weight of less than 2,500 grams (5.5 pounds) at birth, is a
significant indicator of infant health and development. The factors contributing to low birth
weight, ranging from maternal health to socio-economic conditions, underscore the
interconnectedness of maternal and infant well-being. It becomes clear that a mother's
health has a significant impact on her baby's birth weight. The impact of maternal nutrition,
access to prenatal care, and lifestyle choices during pregnancy cannot be overstated.
Socioeconomic factors further complicate the landscape, highlighting disparities in
healthcare access, education, and economic stability as crucial determinants of birth
outcomes.

Understanding about the effects of low birth weight on child development makes
one concerned for these vulnerable newborns' short- and long-term health. Reduced birth
weight is linked to an increased risk of problems such as infections, developmental
delays, and respiratory distress. The knowledge that there could be long-term effects
emphasizes how important it is to address the underlying causes of this problem. As I
reflect on low birth weight in babies, it becomes clear that awareness is not enough. They
need call to action, a call to advocate for comprehensive maternal care, to address social
determinants of health, and to champion policies that prioritize the well-being of mothers
and infants. It also helps for research, education, and community engagement to break
the cycle of inequality that contributes to low birth weight.

In conclusion, reflecting on low birth weight in babies elicits a deep sense of

responsibility to contribute to positive change. It is not only a matter of understanding the
complexities but also of actively engaging in efforts to create a future where every infant
has the opportunity for a healthy start in life. This reflection fuels a commitment to
advocacy, education, and collaboration, recognizing that the journey towards improving
birth outcomes requires collective and sustained efforts from individuals and institutions
alike.