Newborn Weight Gain Expectations in the First Week

During the first month of life, newborns experience rapid physiological and developmental changes. Nurses must assess various aspects of a newborn's health to ensure optimal growth and development. One critical area of assessment includes the newborn's weight gain pattern.

The expected weight gain for a healthy newborn during the first week of life is approximately _____% of their birth weight, with most infants regaining their birth weight by the end of two weeks. This weight gain is vital for establishing adequate nutrition and hydration as well as indicating the infant's overall physical health and well-being.