D. Metallinou, K. Tzounara, P. Nikolaidis, C. Nanou, A. Lykeridou
Abstract: Disruption of smooth intrauterine brain development is a significant consequence of premature birth that can lead to adverse neurological outcomes. Although noteworthy progress has been made in the management of preterm neonates, rates of neonatal morbidity and neurodevelopmental disorders remain high in this population, underlining the need to find and institute care practices that protect, in particular, the central nervous system (CNS). A promising model of care for premature neonates is “neuroprotective care”, which reduces the sensory and environmental stimuli of the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), supporting, in this way, the neuroplasticity of the developing neonatal brain. The clinical practices of this model aim to prevent or minimize the presentation of neurodevelopmental disorders. They can be applied by a specialized interdisciplinary team in the NICU, and close cooperation with the family of the neonate in the care plan is crucial.
Key words: Clinical practices, Neuroprotective care, Premature neonate