Factors influencing language development in preterm infants.
OBJECTIVE
To examine factors influencing preterm infant language development.


METHODS
Longitudinal.


METHODS
Infants were seen for developmental follow-up at 7, 13, and 26 months corrected age in the school of nursing.


METHODS
The sample consisted of 43 mothers and their preterm infants who were below 2,000 g and 36 weeks gestation at birth. More than 88% of the sample were from lower social classes. Seventy-three percent of the sample was African American and 27% was White.


METHODS
Developmental outcome was assessed using the Bayley Scales of Infant Development, and language was assessed using the Reynell Developmental Language Scales.


RESULTS
By 26 months corrected age, infant development was within the normal range. Expressive and receptive language was delayed an average of 3 to 5 months. Factors influencing language included length of hospital stay, birth weight, Apgar scores, infant irritability and state regulation at hospital discharge, and maternal sensitivity.


CONCLUSIONS
Language development is delayed in preterm infants. Maternal sensitivity is positively associated with enhanced infant language. Nurses need to utilize opportunities to enhance sensitive mothering to optimize infant outcomes.
Cusson
Regina M
RM
Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Program, University of Connecticut, School of Nursing, Storrs 06269, USA. regina.cusson@uconn.edu
D000328:Adult; D000367:Age Factors; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D007234:Infant, Premature / Q000502:physiology*; D007802:Language; D007804:Language Development; D007805:Language Development Disorders / Q000517:prevention & control* / Q000628:therapy; D008137:Longitudinal Studies; D009034:Mother-Child Relations