Developmental trajectories in high-risk NICU graduates during the first year of life

Objective: We examined whether early medical factors predicted variability in developmental level and trajectories in high-risk neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) graduates during the first year of life.

Method: Infants (n = 53) who met criteria for the High-Risk Infant Follow-up Program were enrolled. Simple linear models predicted 12-month developmental abilities and linear mixed models predicted 6- to 12-month trajectories based on length of NICU stay and birthweight.

Results: Length of NICU stay was more clearly predictive of 12-month developmental level, while birthweight better explained variability in trajectories. Communication and daily living skills varied based on early medical factors, whereas social skills did not. Motor skills varied by length of stay but not birthweight.

Conclusion: Results support the need for close developmental monitoring of NICU graduates, particularly those with lengthier stays and lower birthweight. Developmental support needs should be based not just on current delays, but on the rate at which infants learn new skills.