An Update for Professionals Working with Neonates at Risk

Abstract

Advances in neonatal intensive care have dramatically increased the survival rate of infants born prematurely or with medical complications. To meet the needs of these at-risk neonates and their families, early interventionists must be well acquainted with the many aspects of neonatal intensive care. The purpose of this paper is to provide a resource for professionals involved with infant service delivery, to update their knowledge regarding neonatal intensive care. Treatment approaches found in the neonatal intensive care unit are discussed in terms of (a) organization and staffing patterns, (b) basic equipment, (c) routine care procedures, (d) family involvement, and (e) common infant diseases/problems and intervention techniques.