Which factors place a newborn at higher risk for hypothermia?

Prematurity, low birth weight, and inadequate gestational age are critical factors that place newborns at a higher risk for hypothermia due to several physiological and developmental reasons. Premature infants often have thinner skin, less subcutaneous fat, and an immature ability to generate heat due to their underdeveloped systems. These characteristics make it challenging for them to maintain their body temperature in a stable range.

Low birth weight is associated with a smaller body mass, which also contributes to a higher surface area-to-volume ratio, leading to an increased risk of heat loss. Furthermore, infants of inadequate gestational age may not have developed sufficient thermal regulation capabilities, making them even more vulnerable to the effects of a cooler environment.

The other options presented may relate to varying aspects of neonatal care and maternal influences but do not directly correlate with hypothermia risks in the same manner.