What is the purpose of an isolette for a neonate?

An isolette, also known as a neonatal incubator, is specifically designed to create and maintain a controlled thermal environment for neonates, particularly those who are premature or have low birth weight. Newborns, particularly those who are preterm, often struggle to maintain their body temperature due to their underdeveloped systems and minimal subcutaneous fat. An isolette provides a warm, stable environment that protects the infant from hypothermia, thereby aiding in their overall health, growth, and development.

The controlled temperature can be adjusted based on the specific requirements of the infant, which can be crucial for their survival and recovery. By maintaining the appropriate thermal environment, the isolette helps reduce stress on the newborn's metabolic functions and contributes to better clinical outcomes.

While options might include nutritional support, transportation, or monitoring vital signs as important aspects of neonatal care, these are not the primary functions of the isolette itself. Rather, the isolette's main role is to serve as a safe and consistent temperature-controlled habitat for vulnerable neonates.