Intermediate
Technical
IVT
preterm infant
Newborn delivered before 37 completed weeks of gestation.
Full Definition
A preterm infant, also called a premature infant, is born before 37 completed weeks of gestation, requiring specialized medical care due to immature organ systems. Preterm infants are further classified by degree of prematurity: late preterm (34-36 weeks), moderate preterm (32-33 weeks), very preterm (28-31 weeks), and extremely preterm (less than 28 weeks). These infants face increased risks of complications including respiratory distress syndrome, feeding difficulties, temperature instability, and developmental delays, with risks generally inversely related to gestational age at birth.
Usage
Usage note: Always specify exact gestational age and include birth weight for complete assessment.
In Context
- "The preterm infant born at 32 weeks required surfactant therapy and mechanical ventilation." — admission note
- "Follow-up care for preterm infants should include developmental screening and ophthalmologic evaluation." — discharge planning
Also known as
premature infant
preemie
Contrasted with
term infant
post-term infant
Don't confuse with
low birth weight infant
small for gestational age