Abstract
This study explored how group-based early parent education impacts development in preterm infants. This retrospective cohort study, with a historical control group, included preterm infants (n = 246) with corrected ages (CAs) of 0-3 months. Those visiting the clinic between July 2017 and December 2018 formed the control group (n = 145), whereas those visiting between January 2019 and February 2020 (n = 101) constituted the education group. The education group received six education sessions performed by a physical therapist, and two sessions conducted by an occupational therapist at CAs of 0-6 months. Assessments included the following: Alberta Infant Motor Scale at CA 3, 6, 9, and 12 months; Bayley Scales of Infant Development II at CA 12 and 24 months; and the Sequenced Language Scale for Infants at CA 24 months. The education group, which initially showed greater developmental delay than the control group, showed no significant delay after education sessions. Developmental improvements were more prominent in infants born before 28 weeks' gestational age, and in infants with no, or mild, brain injury. Group-based early parent education improved development at CA 24 months in preterm infants, especially in infants born before 28 weeks gestational age, and in infants with no, or mild, brain injury. This approach may enhance developmental outcomes in preterm infants.
Published Version
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call