Dyadic Support for Preterm Infants

(MN-SPEEDI Trial)

This trial explores a program called SPEEDI, which supports parents of very preterm infants by enhancing their confidence and understanding of their baby's cues through play. The researchers aim to assess how effectively this program can be delivered at home (Homebased SPEEDI) or via telehealth (Telehealth SPEEDI) after babies leave the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). The study will also examine the strengths and challenges of each method. Families with an infant born before 32 weeks, who stayed in the hospital for over 28 days, and plan to live in Minnesota for at least 6 months, might be suitable for this study. As an unphased trial, this study offers families the chance to contribute to innovative care strategies for preterm infants.

Research has shown that both Homebased SPEEDI and Telehealth SPEEDI are safe for preterm infants and their families.

Homebased SPEEDI involves no drugs or medical devices, and no negative effects from the program itself have been reported. It emphasizes play and interaction to support parents and infants, which is generally well-received.

For Telehealth SPEEDI, studies indicate that remote support can improve outcomes. Specifically, tele-nursing has reduced hospital visits for premature infants and increased parents' confidence and connection with their babies. Thus, Telehealth SPEEDI is not only safe but may also offer additional benefits by enabling families to maintain healthcare support from home.

Researchers are excited about the Dyadic Support for Preterm Infants trial because it explores innovative ways to support the development of preterm infants through the SPEEDI program. Unlike traditional in-person therapy sessions, the Homebased SPEEDI delivers personalized interventions directly in the family's home, enhancing convenience and comfort for both parents and infants. Meanwhile, the Telehealth SPEEDI offers remote access to similar support, allowing flexibility and accessibility for families who might face barriers to attending in-person sessions. These approaches aim to provide comprehensive support during a critical developmental period, with the hope of improving long-term outcomes for preterm infants.

This trial will compare the effectiveness of two versions of the Supporting Play Exploration and Early Development Intervention (SPEEDI) for preterm infants: Homebased SPEEDI and Telehealth SPEEDI. Research has shown that SPEEDI could benefit very preterm infants. Although specific data on Homebased SPEEDI is limited, similar programs have positively impacted early childhood development. In contrast, more evidence supports the Telehealth SPEEDI arm. Studies have found that telehealth programs can reduce hospital readmissions for premature infants and enhance parents' confidence and bonding with their babies. Additionally, telehealth has improved movement and cognitive skills in similar early programs. These findings suggest that SPEEDI, particularly when delivered through telehealth, may effectively support the development of preterm infants and strengthen parent-infant relationships.⁶⁷⁸⁹¹⁰