Robin J. Miller

Single-Family Room Care and Neurobehavioral and Medical Outcomes in Preterm Infants

OBJECTIVE: To determine whether a single-family room (SFR) NICU, including factors associated with the change to a SFR NICU, is associated with improved medical and neurobehavioral outcomes. METHODS: Longitudinal, prospective, quasi-experimental cohort study conducted between 2008 and 2012 comparing medical and neurobehavioral outcomes at discharge in infants born <1500 g. Participants included 151 infants in an open-bay NICU and 252 infants after transition to a SFR NICU. Structural equation modeling was used to determine the role of mediators of relations between type of NICU and medical and neurobehavioral outcomes. RESULTS: Statistically significant results (all Ps ≤.05) showed that infants in the SFR NICU weighed more at discharge, had a greater rate of weight gain, required fewer medical procedures, had a lower gestational age at full enteral feed and less sepsis, showed better attention, less physiologic stress, less hypertonicity, less lethargy, and less pain. NICU differences in weight at discharge, and rate of weight gain were mediated by increased developmental support; differences in number of medical procedures were mediated by increased maternal involvement. NICU differences in attention were mediated by increased developmental support. Differences in stress and pain were mediated by maternal involvement. Nurses reported a more positive work environment and attitudes in the SFR NICU. CONCLUSIONS: The SFR is associated with improved neurobehavioral and medical outcomes. These improvements are related to increased developmental support and maternal involvement.

Developmental origins theory from prematurity to adult disease.

Developmental Origins Theory has received little coverage in the nursing literature, even though it has received much attention in other sciences. The theory proposes that prenatal stress provokes adaptive changes in endocrine and metabolic processes that become permanently programmed and impact later adult health. This paper reviews the theory and describes the primary neuroendocrine mechanism of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis function. Supporting research evidence in preterm infant and adult samples is presented. Through knowledge of the theory and the long-term sequelae for preterm infants, nurses will have a different theoretical perspective and growing evidence to consider in their care for pregnant women and infants.

17-Year Outcome of Preterm Infants with Diverse Neonatal Morbidities: Part 1, Impact on Physical, Neurological, and Psychological Health Status

PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to comprehensively examine physical, neurological, and psychological health in a U.S. sample of 180 infants at age 17. DESIGN AND METHODS The World Health Organization International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health model framed the health-related domains and contextual factors. Assessments included growth, chronic conditions, neurological status, and psychological health. RESULTS Physical health, growth, and neurological outcomes were poorer in the preterm groups. Minor neurological impairment was related to integrative function. Preterm survivors reported higher rates of depression, anxiety, and inattention/hyperactivity. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS Complex health challenges confront preterm survivors at late adolescence, suggesting the necessity of continued health surveillance.

Variations of NICU sound by location and time of day.

Purpose/Aims. The primary aim of this study was to identify time periods of sound levels >45 decibels (dB) in a large Level III NICU. The second aim was to determine whether there were differences in decibel levels across the five bays of the NICU, the four quadrants within each bay, and two 12-hour shifts. Design. A repeated measures design was used. Bay, quadrant, and shift were randomly selected for sampling. Staff and visitors were blinded to the location of the sound meter, which was placed in one of five identical wooden boxes and was preset to record for 12 hours. Sample. Sound levels were recorded every 60 seconds over 40 12-hour periods, 20 during the day shift and 20 during the night shift. Total hours measured were 480. Data were collected every other day during a three-month period. Covariates of staffing, infant census, infant acuity, and medical equipment were collected. Main Outcome Variable. The main outcome variable was sound levels in decibels, with units of measurement of energy equivalent sound level (Leq), peak instantaneous sound pressure level, and maximum sound pressure level during each interval for a total of 480 hours. Results. All sound levels were >45 dB, with average readings ranging from 49.5 to 89.5 dB. The middle bay had the highest levels, with an Leq of 85.74 dB. Quadrants at the back of a bay were louder than quadrants at the front of a bay. The day shift had higher decibel levels than the night shift. Covariates did not differ across bays or shifts.

17-year outcome of preterm infants with diverse neonatal morbidities: part 2, impact on activities and participation.

PURPOSE To examine functioning and participation in a diverse U.S. sample of 180 infants at age 17 years. DESIGN AND METHODS The World Health Organization International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health model framed functioning and participation domains and contextual factors. Assessment included cognition, executive functioning, academic achievement, personal functioning, community participation, and social involvement. RESULTS Socioeconomic status, not prematurity, impacted cognitive and academic outcomes. Across neonatal morbidities, male gender and social disadvantage are key determinants of cognitive, academic, and social functioning. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS Interventions addressing academic and social-behavioral competencies in early school years may potentially optimize long-term preterm outcomes.

The effects of perinatal morbidity and environmental factors on health status of preterm children at age 12.

Children born prematurely have later morbidity, yet little is known about their health in adolescence. This study examined multiple dimensions of health at age 12 and the predictors of biological, behavioral, social, and physical environmental factors. Analysis of variance and logistic regression models were tested. Perinatal morbidity predicted health at age 12. Preterm status increases the risk of later alterations in health. Bronchopulmonary dysplasia, necrotizing enterocolitis, intraventricular hemorrhage, small-for-gestational age, parental perception of child health, and parental psychological distress affect later health. Prematurity and perinatal morbidity continue to impact child health 12 years after birth.

Refining Neurobehavioral Assessment of the High‐Risk Infant Using the NICU Network Neurobehavioral Scale

Nurses caring for high-risk infants use advanced assessment skills to identify the nature of infant instability and to assure timely intervention. The NICU Network Neurobehavioral Scale (NNNS) is a comprehensive assessment of neurological integrity and behavioral function of infants at risk. Research evidence supports its validity and reliability for clinical and research use. The NNNS offers nurses a neurobehavioral assessment especially suited to high-risk and premature infants.