Cardiorespiratory Management of the High-Risk Neonate:

Abstract

Advancements in neonatal intensive care have contributed to the survival of large numbers of infants with increased prematurity and high biologic risk. These infants are at high risk for developing neurodevelopmental complications and usually have some form of cardiorespiratory problem, especially in the acute care setting. The purpose of this article is to familiarize the developmental therapist with the common signs, symptoms and pathologies associated with cardiorespiratory dysfunction in neonates, and to describe the effects of cardiorespiratory dysfunction on the developmental management of the neonatal population. Special emphasis is placed on dealing with the neonatal intensive care unit environment and the importance of monitoring and modifying evaluation and treatment programs according to each infantAEs response. Finally, a discussion of the special problems and needs of the surviving population of infants and children with bronchopulmonary dysplasia is provided.