What is the gestational age range for a late preterm newborn?

• A. 20-34 weeks
• B. 34-36 weeks
• C. 36-38 weeks
• D. 38-40 weeks

Answer: (B)

A late preterm newborn is defined as a baby born between 34 and 36 weeks of gestation. This classification is important in understanding the potential medical concerns and developmental delays that late preterm infants might face compared to full-term infants, who are born between 37 and 42 weeks.

Babies born in the late preterm range may have more complications than full-term infants, such as respiratory issues, feeding difficulties, and temperature regulation problems, due to their organ systems not being fully mature. Identifying the correct gestational age helps healthcare providers in planning appropriate care for these vulnerable infants. The other age ranges pertained to the options do not align with the established definitions in obstetrics and neonatology concerning preterm classifications.