Preterm Infants at High Risk for Maltreatment

   

  Upon this week's readings, I wanted to find more information on how true it could be that preterm infants are at a more significant risk of maltreatment and neglect. It is said most data for abuse can be found and collected through child protective services. But a bump in the road is every state has different definitions of abuse, and inconsistencies limit much data information. The only data that can be guaranteed is maltreatment can harm and kill infants. If their life has not faltered their mental, social and psychical health are highly affected as they age. 

    Professor Susan Mason from the school of public health conducted studies on infants hospitalized for common signs of abuse and neglect. Most of the data collected were for hospitalizations within 12 months of delivery. Mason's data explained how infants born preterm compared to full-term had 1.6 times the risk of being re-admitted to a hospital for neglect. As well, infants that had neonatal care were 1.8 times more likely. She finds it possible and in agreement with Professor Mason that these early challenges disrupt the bond of parent and child due to high stress. Another explanation for why some preterm infants are at risk of maltreatment is their being born to parents with problems such as drug and alcohol use and abuse.  

    Professor Mason made it clear that linking data will be beneficial in future cases to aid in understanding and measuring maltreatment. Thus creating proper procedures for preventing the maltreatment of preterm infants, interventions, and support groups for families to stop abuse in its tracks. From here on, research is still being studied to help families and reduce maltreatment. 

Article link:

https://twin-cities.umn.edu/news-events/hospital-data-shows-preemies-high-risk-maltreatment