Sophisticated technology in neonatal intensive care units (NICU) has resulted in remarkable improvements in the survival of the sickest and most premature newborn infants. Although fortunately the prevalence of disability among NICU graduates has not increased with such advances, the total number of these infants in the community has grown as a result of the improved survival. Many of these babies manifest complex residual health problems and are at risk for developmental difficulties. An understanding of the complications of prematurity and other neonatal illnesses as well as of their treatments can enhance the effectiveness of early intervention services, both in devising creative approaches aimed at promoting the optimal development of medically vulnerable infants and in supporting their families during prolonged periods of intense stress.
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