EvidEncE-BasEd PracticE Within dischargE tEaching of thE PrEmaturE infant

Over 400,000 premature infants are born in the United States every year. The number of infants born weighing less than five pounds, as well the survival of those who might have previously died has steadily increased since 1984 (March of Dimes, 1999). Having a premature infant has a tremendous impact on families, both in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and at home, after discharge. Premature infants face a high risk of having long-term medical and developmental problems such as chronic lung disease, poor growth, feeding problems, cerebral palsy, learning disabilities, and behavioral issues (Tracy, 1999).