| Abstract: | This paper reports on the experience accumulated over more than 10 years by the multidisciplinary team of a Center for early medico-social action in accompanying infants at risk after they leave a Neonatology Center. The members of this team, located in the same building, came to the conclusion that the difficulties encountered are in part connected directly with the psychological trauma experienced during the infant's stay in the hospital and with a poor elaboration of the affects of this period and inadequate planning for appropriate action during this time. As a result, well before they leave the hospital, arrangements are made for immediate support to the children and their families. The support is determined by the seriousness of the situation, whether it be the disease itself, the long stay in the hospital, or some particular weakness in the family. These activities have been intensified in the past 3 years and have been strengthened with regard to children with broncho-pulmonary dysplasia or ulcero-necrotizing enterocolitis. They also are concerned with infants with severe neurological lesions, particularly porencephalia, and children whose mothers are alcoholics, drug addicts, or psychotics. |
