Word parts
What it means
A disease of the newborn intestine, most common in preterm and low-birth-weight babies in the NICUNIK-yoo, or en-eye-see-YOONeonatal intensive care unit: a hospital unit that cares for newborns who are sick or born early.Full entry . The bowel wall is injured and invaded by bacteria, and can break open (perforate). It is linked to an immature gut, poor blood flow to the bowel and formula feeding; breast milk lowers the risk. Treatment includes stopping feeds, a tube to empty the stomach, IV fluids and antibiotics, and surgery when the bowel is perforated.
For the nurse
In a preterm baby, report feeding intolerance, a swollen belly, more fluid left in the stomach before feeds, vomiting bile and blood in the stool. Measure abdominal girth as ordered and take temperatures by a route other than the rectum.
At a glance
| Abbreviations | NEC |
|---|---|
| Spanish | enterocolitis necrosante |
| Also written | NEC |
Related terms
col/o
A word root that means colon, the large intestine.
enter/o
A word part that means intestine, usually the small intestine.
necrosis
The death of cells or tissue in a part of the body.
NICU
Neonatal intensive care unit: a hospital unit that cares for newborns who are sick or born early.
neonatal
Relating to a newborn baby, in the first 28 days after birth.