Premature Babies

More than 10% of all children born in the United States are premature babies. Little Angels PPEC meets the complex medical needs of premature babies in two state-of-the-art facilities in Longwood and Orlando, Florida. Knowing your child is getting everything they need to gain weight, grow, and thrive means the world as a parent, and Little Angels PPEC is here to help. Phone the location in your area or request your facility tour today through online scheduling.

When are babies considered premature?

Premature birth is one that occurs before 37 weeks gestation. This covers:

• Extremely premature birth at less than 28 weeks gestation
• Very premature birth at 28-32 weeks gestation
• Moderately premature birth at 32-34 weeks gestation
• Late preterm birth at 34-36 weeks gestation

The earlier a birth occurs, the more medically fragile a child is likely to be. 

What problems can premature babies develop?

Some premature babies are healthy. However, it’s more common for preterm infants to experience some health challenges. Some of the problems that premature infants may have are: 

• Anemia
• Jaundice
• Weak immune system
• Lung problems, such as respiratory distress syndrome and bronchopulmonary dysplasia
• Feeding problems, such as suck and swallow difficulties
• Eye problems, such as retinopathy of prematurity (ROP)
• Brain bleeds, such as intraventricular hemorrhage
• Heart defects, such as patent ductus arteriosus
• Digestive system problems like necrotizing enterocolitis

Most of these problems arise because a baby’s organs and body systems aren’t fully developed when they’re born prematurely. So, the problems may be resolved as the baby grows. 

Why do premature babies need close medical monitoring?

Premature babies aren’t fully developed yet, and their bodies are weaker than their full-term counterparts. Therefore, it’s vital that premature babies have close medical monitoring to ensure they’re on track for growth and development. 

Close medical monitoring also detects potential problems in the early stages and allows for immediate treatment. 

What does PPEC include for premature babies?

Prescribed pediatric extended care (PPEC) provides medical monitoring and much more for premature infants. Because premature babies are so medically fragile, they may need a variety of special care after leaving the hospital. 

PPEC covers breathing treatments, feeding, care of surgical sites, medical equipment care, and virtually any support your baby may need. In addition, PPEC covers therapy, such as physical therapy, to help your baby grow stronger and more flexible and get on track to hit developmental milestones.

Little Angels PPEC offers medical transportation as well, including rides to and from the facility. All vehicles are staffed by trained Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs). 

Little Angels PPEC understands that being a preemie parent is challenging and often scary. The specialists are here to support your family, provide the highest standard of care for your baby, and help your baby grow up healthy. 

To learn about PPEC care for premature babies, call Little Angels PPEC or book your facility tour online today.