NICU Growth & Development Clinic
Nurture Information Hub
Children challenged by prematurity, birth complications, medical conditions or sickness at birth often need extra care even after they have gone home. NICU graduates are also at a higher risk for developmental and growth delays than well, full term babies and it’s important to identify any issues as early as possible.
To support your child’s development from infancy through childhood they may be enrolled in your hospital’s NICU follow up program.
Generally they are staffed by a multidisciplinary team and depending on your child’s age or needs, may see one or any combination of the following medical professionals;
- Neonatologist / Paediatrician /Nurse
- Physiotherapist
- Speech Pathologist
- Child Psychologist
- Dietician / Nutritionist
Your child may be required to see the NICU Growth and Development Clinic at set times, for example; at 6 months, 12 months, 18 months and 24 months chronological age and then yearly. The NICU Growth and Development clinic does not replace the medical care by your paediatrician, GP or any other specialist your baby may need to see.
Long term monitoring of children challenged by prematurity or sickness also provides vital information, helping health providers evaluate the care they provide.
New national guidelines for the care of very preterm babies – released June 2024.
The aim is that all children will have access to ongoing, transformative care. This way, any health concerns can be identified and treated early.
https://www.crenewbornmedicine.org.au/media/0aabcrcx/25062024_preterm_followup_guideline.pdf
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Disclaimer: This publication by Miracle Babies Foundation is intended solely for general education and assistance and it is it is not medical advice or a healthcare recommendation. It should not be used for the purpose of medical diagnosis or treatment for any individual condition. This publication has been developed by our Parent Advisory Team (all who are parents of premature and sick babies) and has been reviewed and approved by a Clinical Advisory Team. This publication is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Miracle Babies Foundation recommends that professional medical advice and services be sought out from a qualified healthcare provider familiar with your personal circumstances.To the extent permitted by law, Miracle Babies Foundation excludes and disclaims any liability of any kind (directly or indirectly arising) to any reader of this publication who acts or does not act in reliance wholly or partly on the content of this general publication. If you would like to provide any feedback on the information please email [email protected].
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