Which of the following is a potential consequence of poor neonatal adaptation?

A potential consequence of poor neonatal adaptation is increased hospitalization rates. When a newborn struggles to adjust to the extrauterine environment, they may face complications that require additional medical intervention. These complications can include respiratory distress, difficulty with feeding, or problems with thermoregulation, among others. Such issues often necessitate prolonged observation, specialized care in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), or readmission after initial discharge, thereby leading to increased hospitalization rates.

In contrast, a strengthened immune system and favorable mental development are outcomes typically associated with healthy or supported neonatal adaptation, rather than poor adaptation. Similarly, enhanced physiological stability reflects an effective adaptation to life outside the womb, which would not occur in the context of poor adaptation. Therefore, recognizing how inadequate adaptation can lead to more severe health challenges emphasizes the importance of proper neonatal care and monitoring.