Referral for early intervention services in late premature infants with a NICU experience

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Needelman, Howard | Jackson, Barbara J. | McMorris, Carol | Roberts, Holly

Affiliations: Department of Pediatrics, Munroe-Meyer Institute, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5380, USA

Note: [] Corresponding author: Howard Needelman, MD, Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, Munroe-Meyer Institute, 985380 Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5380, USA. Tel.: +1 402 559 4985; Fax: +1 402 559 9011; E-mail: [email protected]

Abstract: Objective: This study investigated the likelihood of referral for early intervention services in premature infants of 34–35 weeks gestation. Study design: All infants 34–35 weeks gestation enrolled in a statewide follow-up program were identified. Referral for evaluation for early intervention was noted and risk factors for this outcome were examined. Results: One-quarter of the infants were referred in the first two years of life. Males and infants with certain congenital anomalies were more likely to be referred. Approximately three quarters of those referred for evaluation for services were found to qualify for services. Over 30% of the infants were lost to follow up. Conclusion: Premature infants delivered at 34–35 weeks have a significant risk for delay mandating evaluation for early intervention services.

Keywords: NICU follow-up, early intervention, late premature infants

Journal: Journal of Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine, vol. 1, no. 3, pp. 169-174, 2008