What is an important consideration when using continuous supplemental oxygen in neonatal care?

When using continuous supplemental oxygen in neonatal care, it is imperative to ensure proper heating and humidification. Neonates, particularly preterm infants or those with respiratory issues, are highly susceptible to dehydration and may experience airway irritation due to the dry nature of supplemental oxygen. Proper heating of the oxygen maintains a thermally stable environment, which is crucial for maintaining the infant's overall health, while humidification helps to prevent drying of the airways, ensuring optimal mucosal function.

Monitoring heart rate, observing temperature, and preventing hyperoxia are important aspects of care, but they do not address the immediate effects of delivering supplemental oxygen. Ensuring that the delivered oxygen is appropriately heated and humidified focuses directly on preventing complications that arise from dry, cold oxygen exposure, making it a vital consideration in neonatal care.