A family medicine approach to the premature infant.
BACKGROUND
An increasing number of infants are born prematurely each year. Their care involves special needs and can include the active involvement of a family physician.


METHODS
The MEDLINE database was searched for clinical reviews and original studies on primary care of the premature infant for the years of 1991-1996. Further sources included cross-references from these articles and standard textbooks.


CONCLUSIONS
This article makes recommendations for inpatient care, discharge planning, and outpatient follow-up of premature infants and their families. The role of the family physician is emphasized.
Dresden
S M
SM
Family Practice Residency Program, St. Luke's Medical Center, Milwaukee, WI, USA.
D000553:Ambulatory Care; D019090:Case Management / Q000592:standards*; D005194:Family Practice / Q000379:methods* / Q000592:standards; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D007234:Infant, Premature; D010351:Patient Discharge; D011368:Professional-Family Relations