Global Pediatrics (Mar 2024)
Comprehensive care for late preterm infants: fostering integrated follow-up
Abstract
Late preterm infants, although they are born closer to full term than extremely preterm infants, still face unique challenges due to their premature birth. Understanding these potential outcomes and providing appropriate support is key to ensuring their optimal development. A tailored follow-up program, guided by an interdisciplinary team of healthcare professionals, aims to provide early identification, continuous monitoring, and individualized care for late preterm infants. The core components of this program include developmental assessments, medical surveillance, parent education and support, and a family-centered approach. A well-structured late preterm follow-up program not only promotes the overall health and well-being of late preterm infants but also help these babies to achieve their full potential.