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Updated: May 26, 2026
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Assessment and Evaluation of the High Risk Neonate: The NICU Network Neurobehavioral Scale
Published on: August 25, 2014
The development of a neonatal communication intervention tool
Esedra Strasheim1, Alta Kritzinger, Brenda Louw
1Department of Communication Pathology, University of Pretoria. esedra1@gmail.com
Summary
Speech-language therapists and audiologists in South Africa are vital for early neonatal communication intervention, especially for at-risk infants. Research developed a culturally relevant intervention tool to support parents and enhance developmental care in public hospitals.
Area of Science:
- Speech-language pathology and audiology
- Neonatal care
- Developmental disabilities
Background:
- South Africa faces a high prevalence of infants at risk for disabilities, often compounded by poverty.
- Limited local literature exists on the roles of speech-language therapists (SLTs) and audiologists in neonatal nurseries.
- Early intervention is crucial for at-risk neonates, with SLTs positioned to provide timely support.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a locally relevant neonatal communication intervention instrument for SLTs in South African public hospitals.
- To address the identified gap in culturally appropriate and user-friendly tools for parent guidance and staff training.
Main Methods:
- Descriptive and exploratory research design.
- Phase 1: Survey of 39 SLTs and 2 audiologists across six South African provinces.
- Phase 2: Compilation and piloting of a parent guidance tool in English and isiZulu.
Main Results:
- Practitioners' roles varied based on available resources; many were inexperienced but resourceful.
- Identified need for culturally appropriate, user-friendly instruments for parent guidance and staff training.
- A neonatal communication intervention program for parents was developed and piloted, with suggestions for enhancement.
Conclusions:
- SLTs and audiologists play a critical role in neonatal care for high-risk infants.
- Developing context-specific intervention tools is essential for facilitating infant development and supporting families.
- Further refinement of the intervention program is recommended to improve usability and impact.
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