Environmental factors, sensory modulation and development of preterm infants in the neonatal high care unit
Date
2021
Authors
Paul, Nicole
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Abstract
This study aimed to determine the association between preterm infant demographics
and their sensory modulation; and to describe a link between the Neonatal High Care
Unit (NHCU) environmental factors, sensory modulation and development of
premature infants born in Edenvale General Hospital. The NHCU was assessed using
the Implementation of Neurodevelopmental Supportive Care (INDeSC) checklist and
48 observations were conducted over a period of six-months. Twenty-two preterm
infants participated in the study. Sensory modulation for the infants was determined
using the Infant Sensory Profile™ 2 (ISP 2) at 4 weeks post discharge and again at 3-
6 months (corrected age). The Bayley Scales of Infant Development – 3rd Edition®
(Bayley-III) was used to determine their developmental age.
The INDeSC checklist indicated most criteria, suggested to simulate a uterine-like
environment, which was not adhered to in the NHCU. This may have influenced the
infants’ sensory modulation. At 4 weeks post discharge, just under sixty percent of the
infants presented with sensory modulation difficulties (SMD) related to over
responsivity. No trend could be found for the scores on the ISP 2 and the Bayley-lll,
when the scores for each infant were compared at age 3-6 months (corrected age). All
the infants, who returned, however, presented with a risk for SMD as well as
developmental delay.
This study highlights the importance of on-going monitoring of the development and
sensory modulation of infants who are born prematurely. The lack of adherence to
criteria for simulating a uterine-like environment within the NHCU/NICU can further
affect early development.
Description
A dissertation submitted in fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science in Occupational Therapy to the Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Therapeutic Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2021