Table 5b.

Treatment of Manifestations in a Newborn with Cystic Fibrosis

Manifestation/ConcernTreatmentConsiderations/Other
General Refer to CF specialist / CF care center.
Pulmonary Teach parent/caregiver airway clearance (typically postural drainage & percussion) to aid in mucus clearance.
Infection
  • Encourage feeding w/breast milk.
  • Routine vaccinations
Use contact precautions (gown & gloves) for every encounter by every clinician.Assume all people w/CF have transmissible bacteria.
  • Antibiotics (oral, inhaled, or IV) for chronic suppression & to treat pulmonary exacerbations
  • Treat identified bacteria in affected person & bacteria common in CF. 1
Eradication attempts are recommended for Pseudomonas aeruginosa2
Exocrine pancreatic
insufficiency
  • Consult nutritionist w/experience in CF.
  • Pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy
  • Nutrient-dense food & supplements
  • Fat-soluble vitamin supplements
Meconium ileus & distal
intestinal obstructive
syndrome
  • If obstructed, consult surgery for intervention.
  • If not obstructed, treat w/laxatives.
Salt loss syndromes /
Dehydration
  • Salt supplementation
  • Extra salt & water for hydration & salt loss in situations w/salt loss (e.g., ↑ heat/humidity, exercise)

From: Cystic Fibrosis

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