Chromosomal abnormalities: Trisomy 18, trisomy 13, deletions, and microdeletions

The birth of an infant with a chromosomal abnormality such as trisomy 18, 1 3, Wolf-Hirschhorn (4p-) syndrome, Cri-du-chat (5p-) syndrome, and the micr odeletion syndromes creates a stressful and devastating experience for fami lies. Many of these disorders have severe consequences encompassing major m alformations and mental retardation. With increasing diagnostic accuracy, c linicians can now appreciate the wide variability and natural history of th ese disorders. Although many of these infants do not survive the neonatal p eriod, others do. Neonatal nurses have the opportunity to assist families i n these situations by providing anticipatory guidance and care.