Clearly, more studies need to be done to address the unique needs and specific treatment guidelines for these infants. In fact, hospitals may need to consider introducing neonatal observation nurseries with protocols specifically tailored for late preterm infants.
CASE Ms. M and Julia likely would have been better served with an extra day in the hospital to address feeding issues and monitor for hyperbilirubinemia. Julia received phototherapy, IV fluids, and intensive lactation support, which included pumped breast milk given through a supplemental nursing system.
Over the course of 48 hours, her bilirubin decreased to 14 mg/dL and she was able to feed for longer periods of time without tiring. While both Ms. M and Julia’s initial outcomes were good, an extra day of feeding support may have prevented a readmission, thousands of dollars in care, and unnecessary stress on both mother and baby.
CORRESPONDENCE Kimberly Stuckey-Schrock, MD, IU Health Goshen, Lincoln Avenue Family Medicine, 400 W Lincoln Avenue, Goshen, IN 46526; kstuckeyschr@iuhealth.org
