Care of Late-Preterm and Early-Term Infants

Key Points Neonates who had late-preterm (LPT) and early-term (ET) births are at increased risk for short- and long-term complications. They are commonly diagnosed with conditions such as temperature instability, hypoglycemia, respiratory distress, jaundice, and feeding difficulties during the birth hospitalization. LPT and ET infants are at increased risk for adverse medical, neurodevelopmental, behavioral, and social sequelae into and through adulthood. Close monitoring during the newborn period and ongoing surveillance for medical and developmental issues are critical in optimizing outcomes for LPT and ET infants.