| Term | Definition |
| non-shivering thermogenesis | mechanism by which newborn generates heat |
| grunting,flaring, retractions | clinical signs of respiratory distress |
| flexed posture | position that helps newborn conserve heat |
| periodic breathing | 10-15 second lapses in breathing, normal finding |
| tachypnea | often the first clinical sign of cold stress |
| placenta | organ that performs fetal gas exchange |
| surfactant | decreases alveolar surface tension to support respiration |
| prenatal and labor history | may impact successful transition to extrauterine life |