Toddler Developmental Delays After Extensive Hospitalization: Primary Care Practitioner Guidelines

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Developmental Psychology

Background:

• Lengthy pediatric hospitalizations, defined as 30 days or more, can impact a toddler's development.
• Neonatal and pediatric intensive care unit (NICU/PICU) graduates face heightened risks for developmental delays.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review factors associated with developmental delays in toddlers (1-3 years) following extensive hospitalizations.
• To raise awareness among healthcare providers about potential developmental impacts of prolonged pediatric stays.

Main Methods:

• A literature review was conducted examining physical, motor, cognitive, and psychosocial development.
• The review focused on children aged 1 to 3 years who experienced hospital stays of 30 days or longer.

Main Results:

• Extensive hospitalization, including non-critical stays, can disrupt toddler development.
• NICU/PICU graduates are particularly vulnerable to developmental delays post-discharge.

Conclusions:

• Primary care practitioners (PCPs) are crucial in identifying and managing developmental delays.
• Formal developmental screening tools and parent surveys can aid PCPs in early detection and intervention.
• PCPs play a key role in coordinating care and educating families on interventions for optimal toddler development.