Evaluation of Developmental Delay in Term Babies on Ventilator Support: A Cross-sectional Study

Abstract

Introduction: Developmental limitation in two or more developmental domains that affects children under the age of five is termed as developmental delay. Due to various reasons such as drug-induced toxicity and maternal variables like a history of drinking, smoking, or infections during pregnancy (e.g., rubella), neonates may require admission to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Although NICU admission improves survival rates, the extended stay and the use of different types of equipment in the NICU may lead to developmental delay. Aim: To identify the developmental delays in critically ill fullterm babies on ventilator support, using the Ages and Stages Questionnaire-3 (ASQ-3) scale. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was designed to evaluate developmental delays in term babies receiving ventilator support. A total of 35 babies who met the inclusion criteria were included in the study. Once the babies reached 17 to 18 months of age, parents were given ASQ-3 to complete. The data were analysed and expressed as mean, standard deviation, frequency, and percentage. Results: Out of the 35 full-term babies on ventilator support, 22 babies (62.9%) showed lower values in gross motor function, 12 (34.3%) in fine motor function, and 12 (34.3%) in problem-solving skills compared to communication and other components, according to ASQ-3. Conclusion: The findings of this research suggest that critically ill full-term infants on ventilator support exhibit significant developmental delays, particularly in gross motor, fine motor, and problem-solving skills.