Impact of the NICU environment on language deprivation in preterm infants

Katherine Rand; Amir Lahav

doi:10.1111/apa.12481

Impact of the NICU environment on language deprivation in preterm infants

Acta Paediatr. 2014 Mar;103(3):243-8. doi: 10.1111/apa.12481. Epub 2013 Nov 23.

Authors

Katherine Rand¹, Amir Lahav

Affiliation

¹ Department of Newborn Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.

PMID: 24164604
DOI: 10.1111/apa.12481

Abstract

It is unclear whether the atypical language development commonly seen in preterm infants is a consequence of language deficiency experienced during their prolonged NICU stay. This review provides a novel viewpoint, which highlights the potential impact of the NICU design on the developmental origin of language disabilities in preterm infants.

Conclusion: Further research is needed to identify evidence-based design solutions for providing preterm infants with a healthier linguistic hospital environment that aids growth and development.

Keywords: Deprivation; Design; Language; NICU; Preterm; Sounds.

Publication types

Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
Review

MeSH terms

Environment
Humans
Infant, Newborn
Infant, Premature*
Intensive Care Units, Neonatal*
Language Development*
Sensory Deprivation*