Date of Graduation

5-2015

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Degree Level

Undergraduate

Department

Nursing

Advisor/Mentor

Scott, Allison

Committee Member/Reader

Vowell-Johnson, Kelly

Committee Member/Second Reader

Smith-Blair, Nan

Abstract

This descriptive study evaluates the most common factors for readmission of late-preterm infants. It is hoped that this important information will allow a hospital in Northwest Arkansas to better identify late-preterm infants at risk for readmission to the hospital within 30 days of their birth hospitalization. Identification of at risk infants will allow for specialized care and education. Common factors that result in readmission of preterm infants include jaundice, feeding difficulties, temperature instability, infection, hypoglycemia, and respiratory problems. Education of healthcare professionals and parents of the vulnerability of late-preterm infants, who are often overlooked since they are usually of the same size and weight of term infants, is of utmost importance. Diligent evaluation, monitoring, and early return appointments are also important. The local hospital in Northwest Arkansas, where I conducted data collection, receives readmissions of preterm infants who are born in hospitals all throughout Arkansas and its border states, however, for this study I only collected data from late-preterm infant medical records who were hospitalized at birth at this specific hospital in Northwest Arkansas and who met other study criteria. Preterm birth is a growing problem in the United States, with the percentage of late-preterm births growing since the 1990’s. This descriptive study will attempt to identify factors and trends related to readmission of late-preterm infants to a hospital in Northwest Arkansas. Readmission of late-preterm infants causes a financial burden not only to the family of the child but also to the healthcare institution.

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