What percentage of infants in the NICU are generally classified as preterm?

In the context of neonatal care, preterm birth refers to infants born before 37 weeks of gestation. It is well-documented that a significant proportion of NICU admissions consist of preterm infants due to various risk factors associated with premature delivery, such as maternal health conditions, multiple gestations, and complications during pregnancy.

Research indicates that approximately 10-15% of infants admitted to the NICU fall into the preterm category. This range is consistent with the prevalence of preterm births globally, as reported by organizations such as the World Health Organization. Understanding this percentage is crucial for NICU nurses and healthcare providers, as it helps in anticipating the needs of these infants and preparing appropriate care protocols to support their development and health outcomes.