neonatal – adj. of, relating to, or affecting the newborn and especially the human infant during the first month after birth

anxious – adj. afraid or nervous especially about what may happen

frail – adj. physically weak

encouraging – adj. giving hope or promise

incubator – n. medical : a piece of equipment in which very weak or sick babies are placed for special care and protection after their birth

tolerate – v. to endure or resist the action of (something, such as a drug or food) without serious side effects or discomfort

growth factor – n. a substance (as a vitamin B12 or an interleukin) that promotes growth and especially cellular growth

standardize – v. to change (things) so that they are similar and consistent and agree with rules about what is proper and acceptable

formula – n. a milk mixture or substitute for feeding an infant

protocol – n. a system of rules that explain the correct conduct and procedures to be followed in formal situations