Brain Injury in Preterm Infants: Pathogenesis and Nursing Implications

Preterm infants are at higher risk for neurological alterations, with this risk increasing with decreasing gestational age due to both developmental and destructive elements. This article provides an overview of brain development and vulnerabilities in the preterm infant and examines the pathogenesis of three areas of brain injury seen in preterm infants: periventricular leukomalacia, germinal matrix hemorrhage/intraventricular hemorrhage, and cerebellar injury). Implications for nursing care of infants at risk for these disorders are discussed.