An Integrated Review of Developmental Outcomes and Late‐Preterm Birth

Objective: To evaluate existing evidence on long‐term developmental outcomes of late‐preterm infants (LPI; infants born 34‐36 6/7 weeks gestation). Data Sources: Computerized bibliographic databases and hand search for English language articles published between January 1995 and November 2010 yielded 817 articles. Study Selection: Twelve studies (10 cohort and two cross‐sectional) were identified that defined late‐preterm (LP) birth as 34 to 36 6/7 weeks gestation and addressed growth and neurodevelopmental outcomes in LPI. Data Extraction: Using a modified Downs and Black scale for assessing the quality of experimental and observational studies, two reviewers who were blind to each other's ratings assessed study quality. Ratings ranged from 12.5 to 14 with moderate to very good interrater agreement. Kappa (κ) values were 0.83 (reporting), 0.63 (external validity), 0.73 (internal validity), and 0.83 (design) for the four subscales and 0.56 for the whole scale, with no major systematic disagreements between reviewers. Data Synthesis: Studies were divided into five categories to include the following developmental outcomes: neurodevelopment, behavioral, cognitive, growth, and function. Using the Meta‐analysis of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (MOOSE) guidelines, synthesis of the findings is provided as an integrative review. Conclusion: Significant variations in study populations, methodology, and definition of LP exist. Due to paucity and heterogeneity of the existing data especially in infants born 34 to 36 6/7 weeks, there is no clear characterization of the long‐term risks, and future research is needed.Peer Reviewedhttp://deepblue.lib.umich.edu/bitstream/2027.42/86856/1/j.1552-6909.2011.01270.x.pd

Overview of Structure, Process, and Outcome Indicators of Quality in Neonatal Care

Nurses who implement quality improvement projects and evidence-based care need to measure quality of care before, during, and after a change in practice. The purpose of this overview is to summarize current literature within the traditional framework of quality of care as structure, process, and outcome. This information should assist nurses in their selection of indicators/metrics that are appropriate for the neonatal population

Golden Hours Care of the Very Low Birth Weight Neonate

Dorothy Vittner (with Jacqueline M. McGrath, Ana F. Diallo, and Haifa Abou Samra) is a contributing author, Integration of Developmentally Supportive and Family Centered Care Interventions during the Golden Hour , Chapter 22 pp.391-405.https://digitalcommons.fairfield.edu/nursing-books/1088/thumbnail.jp