Description

High-Risk Follow-Up for Premature Infants is essential for identifying and managing developmental, neurological, nutritional, and medical concerns that may arise due to early birth. Here's an overview of what this typically involves: Who Needs High-Risk Follow-Up? Infants typically referred to high-risk follow-up clinics include: <32 weeks gestational age <1500 grams birth weight Infants with intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH), periventricular leukomalacia (PVL), bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) Infants requiring prolonged respiratory support or surgery Those with hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) or significant NICU complications Goals of Follow-Up: Monitor growth and nutrition Assess neurodevelopmental milestones Screen for vision and hearing problems Provide early intervention services Manage chronic conditions (e.g., BPD, GERD, feeding difficulties) Support family education and psychosocial needs Schedule of Visits (Typical): 1–2 weeks post-discharge 3–6 months corrected age 9–12 months corrected age 18–24 months corrected age Annually thereafter (if indicated) Key Evaluations: Growth parameters: weight, length, head circumference Neurodevelopmental screening: Bayley Scales of Infant Development, HINE, or equivalent Vision: Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) follow-up, ophthalmology exams Hearing: ABR if NICU >5 days or failed newborn screening Nutrition: Feeding, formula/breastfeeding support, iron/vitamin D supplementation Respiratory: Oxygen weaning, RSV prophylaxis (Synagis), BPD management Vaccinations: On schedule for corrected age, plus RSV prophylaxis (if eligible) Multidisciplinary Team: Neonatologist / Pediatrician Developmental pediatrician Physical / Occupational / Speech therapists Nutritionist Social worker / Psychologist