Neurodevelopmental care following neonatal discharge

• Published in: Paediatrics and child health 2022-09, Vol.32 (9), p.324-331
• Main Authors: Merchant, Nazakat, Shekhar, Lipi, Huertas-Ceballos, Angela, Johnson, Samantha, Arasu, Anusha
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: developmental delay; developmental impairment; early intervention; follow-up; high-risk neonates; neurodevelopment; outcome
• ISSN: 1751-7222; 1878-206X
• DOI: 10.1016/j.paed.2022.07.002

The development of the brain and nervous system to achieve functional capabilities is known as neurodevelopment. Certain factors increasing the risk of brain injury such as prematurity, neonatal encephalopathy, infection, and other insults to a developing brain can lead to neurodevelopmental disorders. Neurodevelopmental intervention aims to achieve the closest to expected functioning possible for every child starting right from birth or even antenatally. Standardized and robust follow-up care is needed for all neonates who are at high risk for developmental impairment. Meticulous follow-up care is essential to recognize early signs of developmental delays and deviations. Early identification enables us to initiate interventions and improve long term outcomes for the babies. Various age-appropriate screening tools are available for early recognition of developmental delays and neurodevelopmental disorders. Prompt intervention and appropriate support enhances developmental growth and improves the outcome significantly. This article introduces the importance of neurodevelopment and summarises the guidelines on developmental follow-up for babies at high risk of developmental impairment. The article mainly focuses on follow up strategies in the UK but also discusses about developmental follow up in general.