Abstract
Aim: This Audit was done to assess existing local and national practice in the follow-up of newborns at risk (less than 32weeks gestation and or under 1500grams birth weight).
Data collection: 202 questionnaires were sent to neonatal units across the United Kingdom and the response was collected.
Results: 108 units responded, of which 88 (81%) were district general and 20 (19%) were tertiary hospitals. 70 (65%) units had a local guideline for follow up, where as 38(35%) didn't. 59 (50%) hospitals reviewed them at six weeks for the first follow up and second between 3-6 months in 43 (40%) hospitals. Subsequent follow up was at 6 months in 32 (29%) and 12 months in 38 (35%) hospitals. Most units 76 ( 70%) discharged around two years of age. Consultants conducted these clinics 107 (99%) and 76 (70%) had follow up with other teams like physiotherapy 46 (42.5%) and occupational therapy 55 (50.9%).
An assessment tool was used in 82 (75.9%) hospitals which included Bayley 22 (20%) and Griffiths 26 (24%). These assessments were performed by consultants/ trainees in 68 (63%), the community support team in 21 (19%) hospitals. The timing varied between 1and 2 years of age with the majority being at 2 years, 26 (24%).
Conclusion: Individual units have own practices utilising their resources. Evidence that if these children are identified and supported early, the impact on the long term development of these infants will be minimised. We therefore recommend a national guideline.
Article PDF
Author information
Authors and Affiliations
Rights and permissions
About this article
Cite this article
Job, S., Karuppaswamy, D. Do i Know the Path Ahead (Looking at the Thoughts of a Preterm Infant after Discharge). Pediatr Res 70 (Suppl 5), 658 (2011). https://doi.org/10.1038/pr.2011.883
Issue Date:
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/pr.2011.883