The effects of alternative positioning on preterm infants in the neonatal intensive care unit: a randomized clinical trial

Effectiveness of physiological flexion swaddling and oromotor interventions in improving preterm infants' oral feeding ability in the NICU: a randomized controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to prove the effectiveness of physiological flexion swaddling and oromotor interventions in terms of the duration needed to achieve the oral feeding ability of preterm infants in the NICU.

METHODS

A randomized clinical trial in five Neonatal intensive care units (NICU) was performed involving 70 preterm infants born at 28-34 weeks gestational age. Participants were allocated to 1) the experimental group (n = 39) received physiological flexion swaddling and oromotor interventions, and 2) the control group (n = 31) received conventional swaddling and oromotor interventions. Mann-Whitney U analysis was used to determine the effectiveness of each group according to the duration needed to achieve oral feeding ability, while Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was applied to compare the duration of both groups.

RESULTS

The experimental group had a significantly shorter duration in achieving oral feeding ability [4 (1-15) vs. 7 (2-22) days; p = 0.02]. The Kaplan-Meier survival curve analysis showed that infants in the experimental group achieved full oral feeding ability earlier than those in the control group (15 vs. 22 days).

CONCLUSIONS

Physiological flexion swaddling and oromotor interventions have been proven to be effective in shortening the number of days needed to achieve the oral feeding ability of preterm infants in the NICU.

Effects of the use of a cocoon on the autonomic, motor, and regulatory systems in preterm newborns: Randomized clinical trial

INTRODUCTION

The wrapping of the newborn in an orthopedic tubular mesh, simulating a cocoon, can allow the infant to regain the feeling of security and stability experienced in the uterus given that the movement of one of the parts of the body exerts tactile and pressure variation in others.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to evaluate the influence of an orthopedic tubular mesh, simulating a cocoon, in therapeutic positioning, on the variables of the autonomous, motor, and regulatory systems of preterm newborns.

METHODS

A controlled and randomized clinical trial was conducted with preterm newborns positioned in dorsal decubitus and divided into two groups: (a) cocoon - newborns covered with an orthopedic tubular mesh, and (b) control - newborns positioned according to the sector's routine and without the use of an orthopedic mesh. During the follow-up, each newborn was placed in the position for 30 min and was recorded for a total of 2 min, once at the beginning and again at the end of the observation period. Variables related to the autonomous system (heart rate, respiratory rate, and peripheral oxygen saturation), motor system (general movements), and regulatory system (Neonatal Infant Pain Scale) were evaluated before and after the intervention. The videos were evaluated by a researcher blind to the purpose of the study, and the resulting data were analyzed using SPSS.

RESULTS

Of the 40 preterm newborns evaluated (32.5 ± 1.83 weeks), 21 were female, and 20 were allocated to the cocoon group. The variables related to the autonomous, motor, and regulatory systems remained unchanged following the positioning in the cocoon, as compared to the typical positioning employed in the neonatal unit.

CONCLUSION

The simulation of a cocoon, utilizing an orthopedic tubular mesh, when applied to preterm newborns admitted to a neonatal intensive care unit can contribute to maintaining low levels of stress, without altering variables of the autonomous, motor, and regulatory systems.

A pilot exploratory study examining the potential influence of continuous positive airway pressure devices on cranial molding trajectories in preterm infants

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this exploratory study was to assess the potential impacts of two different continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) devices on preterm infant head shape and circumference.

STUDY DESIGN

Twenty infants born at <32 weeks gestational age requiring CPAP support were enrolled. Ten infants used the Hudson RCI Nasal Prong CPAP device and 10 infants used the Fisher-Paykel CPAP device. Infant Cranial Index (CI) and head circumference (HC) were collected weekly as well as infant gestational age at birth, and total number of days on CPAP.

RESULTS

At baseline, average total birthweight of infants was 1021 grams (SD = 227 grams), average gestational age was 26.9 weeks (SD = 1.80), mean CI was 79.7 cm (SD = 5.95), and HC was 10.2 cm (SD = 0.92). Days on CPAP ranged from 16 to 63 days, with an average of 40.7 (SD = 13.6) days. Neither CI nor HC differed by device type; however, the Fisher-Paykel device was associated with slightly greater HC growth rate.

CONCLUSION

CPAP devices and the pressures they apply plausibly contribute to preterm infant cranial molding over time, with the greatest potential impact on infants who require CPAP support for longer periods; however, these findings must be validated in larger cohorts. Additionally, positioning practices should be further examined to determine how they may contribute to or prevent the development of cranial molding deformity.

Optimising motor development in the hospitalised infant with CHD: factors contributing to early motor challenges and recommendations for assessment and intervention

BACKGROUND

Neurodevelopmental challenges are the most prevalent comorbidity associated with a diagnosis of critical CHD, and there is a high incidence of gross and fine motor delays noted in early infancy. The frequency of motor delays in hospitalised infants with critical CHD requires close monitoring from developmental therapies (physical therapists, occupational therapists, and speech-language pathologists) to optimise motor development. Currently, minimal literature defines developmental therapists' role in caring for infants with critical CHD in intensive or acute care hospital units.

PURPOSE

This article describes typical infant motor skill development, how the hospital environment and events surrounding early cardiac surgical interventions impact those skills, and how developmental therapists support motor skill acquisition in infants with critical CHD. Recommendations for healthcare professionals and those who provide medical or developmental support in promotion of optimal motor skill development in hospitalised infants with critical CHD are discussed.

CONCLUSIONS

Infants with critical CHD requiring neonatal surgical intervention experience interrupted motor skill interactions and developmental trajectories. As part of the interdisciplinary team working in intensive and acute care settings, developmental therapists assess, guide motor intervention, promote optimal motor skill acquisition, and support the infant's overall development.

Neonatal Care Unit Interventions on Preterm Development

Prematurity is becoming a real public health issue as more and more children are being born prematurely, alongside a higher prevalence of neurodevelopmental disorders. Early intervention programs in Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs) correspond to these uni- or multi-sensorial solicitations aiming to prevent and detect complications in order to support the development of preterm infants. This article aims to distinguish sensory intervention programs according to the gradient of the type of solicitations, uni- or multi-modal, and according to the function of the person who performs these interventions. Uni-sensorial interventions are essentially based on proprioceptive, gustatory, or odorant solicitations. They allow, in particular, a reduction of apneas that support the vegetative states of the preterm infant. On the other hand, the benefits of multi-sensory interventions seem to have a longer-term impact. Most of them allow the support of the transition from passive to active feeding, an increase in weight, and the improvement of sleep-wake cycles. These solicitations are often practiced by caregivers, but the intervention of parents appears optimal since they are the main co-regulators of their preterm child's needs. Thus, it is necessary to co-construct and train the parents in this neonatal care.

A systematic review of improved positions and supporting devices for premature infants in the NICU

Background

In the neonatal intensive care unit, nurses often place premature infants in the supine, prone, and lateral positions. However, these positions do not always meet all the physiological needs of premature infants. Thus, many improved positions and various position-supporting devices have been studied to provide infants with a development-friendly and comfortable environment.

Aim

We aimed to help nurses recognize and understand the various improved positions and devices, and to provide nurses with more options in addressing the needs of preterm infants.

Study design

We searched PubMed, Web of Science, and EMBASE from 2012 to 2022 for studies on position management of preterm infants, and screened the search results according to inclusion and exclusion criteria. Then we extracted data and evaluated the quality of the included studies. Finally, we conducted a qualitative summary of the results.

Results

Twenty-one articles were included in this review. Fourteen were studies about improved positions, including hammock position, facilitated tucking position, ROP position, reverse kangaroo mother care position (R-KMC), and supported diagonal flexion position (SDF). Seven were studies on positioning devices, four on cranial deformity prevention, and three on reformative swaddling. They have a positive impact on sleep and flexion maintenance, in addition, they can prevent head deformity and reduce the pain of premature infants.

Conclusion

The position management of premature infants is diversified. Instead of sticking to a single position placement, nurses should adjust the position according to the unique physiological conditions of infants to reduce sequelae and promote their recovery and growth during long-term hospitalization. There should be more studies on position management with large sample sizes in the future.

'Propped and prone' positioning reduces respiratory events in spontaneously breathing preterm infants: A randomised triple crossover study

AIM

We compared effects of infant positioning and feed-rate interventions on respiratory events and oximetry parameters in spontaneously breathing preterm infants born <32 weeks gestation managed in a neonatal unit.

METHODS

A randomised triple crossover design was employed. n = 68 infants underwent three test conditions A: control (supine/flat, gravity bolus feeds), B: position intervention (propped/prone) and C: feed-rate intervention (continuous pump feeds) in randomised sequence over three consecutive days. Primary outcomes were number of events (apnoea, bradycardia and desaturation) and percentage time SpO₂  < 80% over 24 h. The secondary outcome was percentage time SpO₂  ≥ 88%. Treatment effects were estimated using linear mixed-effects models.

RESULTS

Propped/prone positioning significantly reduced events and improved percentage time SpO₂  < 80% and ≥88% compared to both other conditions (all P < 0.001). Outcomes for the feed-rate intervention were not significantly different to control.

CONCLUSIONS

Alternative infant positioning should be considered in preterm infants managed in the neonatal unit.

Systematic Review of the Effects of Positioning on Nonautonomic Outcomes in Preterm Infants

OBJECTIVE

To identify and synthesize the available evidence on the effect of different positions (prone, supine, and right and left lateral) on nonautonomic outcomes for preterm infants admitted to the NICU.

DATA SOURCES

We searched the CINAHL, MEDLINE, Scopus, and Cochrane databases for reports of primary research studies using a three-step strategy. We also searched for gray literature and reviewed the reference lists of retrieved articles.

STUDY SELECTION

We included reports of quantitative studies published in English from database inception through February 2022 that focused on positioning and nonautonomic outcomes (pain, comfort, skin integrity, behavioral state, and sleep quality and duration) for preterm infants in the NICU. Two authors independently screened titles and abstracts and assessed articles in full text against the inclusion criteria.

DATA EXTRACTION

Two authors independently extracted the data from the full-text articles using a standardized data extraction tool. We synthesized the data narratively because of the different designs and outcome measures among the included studies.

DATA SYNTHESIS

From a total of 550 records initially screened, we included 17 articles in our review. In the included articles, prone positioning improved sleep quality and duration, whereas supine positioning was associated with increased awakenings and activity. Infants demonstrated fewer self-regulatory behaviors in the prone position compared to supine or side-lying and were less stressed in the prone position. We found minimal evidence on the effect of positioning on skin integrity or pain.

CONCLUSION

There is limited good-quality evidence on the effect of positioning on nonautonomic outcomes in preterm infants. To inform clinical practice, high-quality randomized controlled trials focused on the positioning of premature infants are warranted.

Optimizing Neurodevelopmental Outcomes in Neonates With Congenital Heart Disease

Neurodevelopmental impairment is a common and important long-term morbidity among infants with congenital heart disease (CHD). More than half of those with complex CHD will demonstrate some form of neurodevelopmental, neurocognitive, and/or psychosocial dysfunction requiring specialized care and impacting long-term quality of life. Preventing brain injury and treating long-term neurologic sequelae in this high-risk clinical population is imperative for improving neurodevelopmental and psychosocial outcomes. Thus, cardiac neurodevelopmental care is now at the forefront of clinical and research efforts. Initial research primarily focused on neurocritical care and operative strategies to mitigate brain injury. As the field has evolved, investigations have shifted to understanding the prenatal, genetic, and environmental contributions to impaired neurodevelopment. This article summarizes the recent literature detailing the brain abnormalities affecting neurodevelopment in children with CHD, the impact of genetics on neurodevelopmental outcomes, and the best practices for neonatal neurocritical care, focusing on developmental care and parental support as new areas of importance. A framework is also provided for the infrastructure and resources needed to support CHD families across the continuum of care settings.

Neurobehavior in very preterm infants with low medical risk and full-term infants

OBJECTIVE

To describe differences in neurobehavior among very preterm infants with low medical risk at term equivalent age and full-term infants.

STUDY DESIGN

One-hundred eighty-six (136 infants born ≤32 weeks gestation with low medical risk at term equivalent age and 50 full-term infants within 4 days of birth) had standardized neurobehavioral assessments. Low medical risk was defined by ventilation <10 days and absence of significant brain injury, necrotizing enterocolitis, patent ductus arteriosus, and retinopathy of prematurity.

RESULTS

Very preterm infants with low medical risk at term equivalent age demonstrated more sub-optimal reflexes (p < 0.001; ß = 1.53) and more stress (p < 0.001; ß = 0.08) on the NICU Network Neurobehavioral Scale compared to their full-term counterparts. Very preterm infants with low medical risk also performed worse on the Hammersmith Neonatal Neurological Examination (p = 0.005; ß = -3.4).

CONCLUSION

Very preterm infants at term equivalent age continue to demonstrate less optimal neurobehavior compared to full-term infants.

Nursing Interventions That Promote Sleep in Preterm Newborns in the Neonatal Intensive Care Units: An Integrative Review

Sleep is a crucial factor for the psychological and physiological well-being of any human being. In Neonatal Intensive Care Units, preterm newborns' sleep may be at risk due to medical and nursing care, environmental stimuli and manipulation. This review aims to identify the nurses' interventions that promote sleep in preterm newborns in the Neonatal Intensive Care Units. An integrative review was conducted following Whittemore and Knafl's methodology and the 2020 Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) statement. The research was carried out on the electronic databases PubMed, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, and ScienceDirect, with a timeframe from 2010 to 2021. A total of 359 articles were initially identified. After selection and analysis, five studies were included in the sample. Interventions by nursing staff that promote sleep in preterm newborns in the Neonatal Intensive Care Units fall within three categories: environmental management, relaxation techniques and therapeutic positioning. Nurses play a vital role in implementing interventions that promote preterm newborns' sleep. They can positively affect preterm newborns' sleep by controlling environmental stimuli and applying relaxation techniques and therapeutic positioning to their care practices.

Does the Head Position Affect Neonatal Lateral Ventricular Volume?

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to determine whether there are differences in the lateral ventricular volumes, measured by three-dimensional ultrasound (3D US) depending on the posture of the neonate (right and left lateral decubitus).

STUDY DESIGN

This was a prospective analysis of the lateral ventricular volumes of preterm neonates recruited from Victoria Hospital, London, Ontario (June 2018-November 2019). A total of 24 premature neonates were recruited. The first cohort of 18 unstable premature neonates were imaged with 3D US in their current sides providing 15 right-sided and 16 left-sided 3D US images. The neonates in the second cohort of six relatively stable infants were imaged after positioning in each lateral decubitus position for 30 minutes, resulting in 40 3D US images obtained from 20 posture change sessions. The images were segmented and the ventricle volumes in each lateral posture were compared with determine whether the posture of the head influenced the volume of the upper and lower ventricle.

RESULTS

For the first cohort who did not have their posture changed, the mean of the right and left ventricle volumes were 23.81 ± 15.51 and 21.61 ± 16.19 cm³, respectively, for the 15 images obtained in a right lateral posture and 13.96 ± 8.69 and 14.92 ± 8.77 cm³, respectively, for the 16 images obtained in the left lateral posture. Similarly, for the second cohort who had their posture changed, the mean of right and left ventricle volumes were 20.92 ± 17.3 and 32.74 ± 32.33 cm³, respectively, after 30 minutes in the right lateral posture, and 21.25 ± 18.4 and 32.65 ± 31.58 cm³, respectively, after 30 minutes in the left lateral posture. Our results failed to show a statistically significant difference in ventricular volumes dependence on posture.

CONCLUSION

Head positioned to any lateral side for 30 minutes does not have any effect on the lateral ventricular volumes of neonates.

KEY POINTS

· Three-dimensional cranial ultrasound can measure neonatal ventricle volume.. · Ventricle volume in each lateral ventricle may be affected by posture of the neonate.. · The 30 minutes in any lateral posture is not sufficient to create volume difference in lateral ventricles..

The effect of concurrent use of swaddle and sucrose on the intensity of pain during venous blood sampling in neonate: a clinical trial study

Background & objective

Infants undergo painful procedures while receiving care and treatment. Blood sampling is the most common painful procedure for infants. Pain control plays a significant role in preventing unwanted physical and psychological effects. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effect of concurrent use of swaddle and sucrose taste on the pain intensity during venous blood sampling in neonates.

Methods

In this clinical trial study, 60 infants admitted to the neonatal ward of Amirkola Hospital were randomly divided into four groups of 15 patients. In the first group, the infants were swaddled before blood sampling. In the second group, sucrose was administered to infants. In the third group, the neonates were swaddled and given sucrose simultaneously, and in the fourth group (control), blood sampling was performed routinely. PIPP pain scale and demographic questionnaire were used to collect the data. Data analysis was performed using SPSS23.

Results

The results showed a significant difference between the mean pain intensity in neonates in the sucrose-swaddle group (4.53 ± 1.30) and the sucrose (7.73 ± 2.73), swaddle (9.86 ± 33.33), and control (12.13 ± 2.06) groups during blood sampling (P < 0.001). Besides, after blood sampling, there was a significant difference between the mean pain intensity in neonates in the sucrose-swaddle group (4.33 ± 1.23) and the sucrose (8.13 ± 2.66), swaddle (7.73 ± 2.78), and control (10.00. ± 1.96) groups (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

The present study showed that pain severity during and after venous blood sampling was lower in the swaddle-sucrose group than in other groups. Therefore, it is recommended that the combined method of swaddle-sucrose be used in infants as a better pain reliever when intravenous blood sampling is performed.

Developmentally Supportive Positioning Policy for Preterm Low Birth Weight Infants in a Tertiary Care Neonatal Unit: A Quality Improvement Initiative

Objective

Methods

Results

Conclusions

Transition to a Safe Home Sleep Environment for the NICU Patient

Of the nearly 3.8 million infants born in the United States in 2018, 8.3% had low birth weight (ie, weight <2500 g) and 10% were born preterm (ie, gestational age of <37 weeks). Ten to fifteen percent of infants (approximately 500 000 annually), including low birth weight and preterm infants and others with congenital anomalies, perinatally acquired infections, and other diseases, require admission to a NICU. Every year, approximately 3600 infants in the United States die of sudden unexpected infant death (SUID), including sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), unknown and undetermined causes, and accidental suffocation and strangulation in an unsafe sleep environment. Preterm and low birth weight infants are 2 to 3 times more likely than healthy term infants to die suddenly and unexpectedly. Thus, it is important that health care professionals prepare families to maintain their infant in a safe home sleep environment as per recommendations of the American Academy of Pediatrics. Medical needs of the NICU infant often require practices such as nonsupine positioning, which should be transitioned as soon as medically possible and well before hospital discharge to sleep practices that are safe and appropriate for the home environment. This clinical report outlines the establishment of appropriate NICU protocols for the timely transition of these infants to a safe home sleep environment. The rationale for these recommendations is discussed in the accompanying technical report "Transition to a Safe Home Sleep Environment for the NICU Patient," included in this issue of Pediatrics.

Transition to a Safe Home Sleep Environment for the NICU Patient

Of the nearly 3.8 million infants born in the United States in 2018, 8.3% had low birth weight (<2500 g [5.5 lb]) and 10% were born preterm (gestational age of <37 completed weeks). Many of these infants and others with congenital anomalies, perinatally acquired infections, and other disease require admission to a NICU. In the past decade, admission rates to NICUs have been increasing; it is estimated that between 10% and 15% of infants will spend time in a NICU, representing approximately 500 000 neonates annually. Approximately 3600 infants die annually in the United States from sleep-related deaths, including sudden infant death syndrome International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision (R95), ill-defined deaths (R99), and accidental suffocation and strangulation in bed (W75). Preterm and low birth weight infants are particularly vulnerable, with an incidence of death 2 to 3 times greater than healthy term infants. Thus, it is important for health care professionals to prepare families to maintain their infant in a safe sleep environment, as per the recommendations of the American Academy of Pediatrics. However, infants in the NICU setting commonly require care that is inconsistent with infant sleep safety recommendations. The conflicting needs of the NICU infant with the necessity to provide a safe sleep environment before hospital discharge can create confusion for providers and distress for families. This technical report is intended to assist in the establishment of appropriate NICU protocols to achieve a consistent approach to transitioning NICU infants to a safe sleep environment as soon as medically possible, well before hospital discharge.

Effectiveness of interventions on early neurodevelopment of preterm infants: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

As preterm infants' neurodevelopment is shaped by NICU-related factors during their hospitalization, it is essential to evaluate which interventions are more beneficial for their neurodevelopment at this specific time. The objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to evaluate the effectiveness of interventions initiated during NICU hospitalization on preterm infants' early neurodevelopment during their hospitalization and up to two weeks corrected age (CA).

METHODS

This systematic review referred to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses [PRISMA] guidelines and was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42017047072). We searched CINAHL, MEDLINE, PubMed, EMBASE (OVID), Cochrane Systematic Reviews, CENTRAL, and Web of Science from 2002 to February 2020 and included randomized controlled/clinical trials conducted with preterm infants born between 24 and 366/7 weeks of gestation. All types of interventions instigated during NICU hospitalization were included. Two independent reviewers performed the study selection, data extraction, assessment of risks of bias and quality of evidence.

RESULTS

Findings of 12 studies involving 901 preterm infants were synthesized. We combined three studies in a meta-analysis showing that compared to standard care, the NIDCAP intervention is effective in improving preterm infants' neurobehavioral and neurological development at two weeks CA. We also combined two other studies in a meta-analysis indicating that parental participation did not significantly improve preterm infants' neurobehavioral development during NICU hospitalization. For all other interventions (i.e., developmental care, sensory stimulation, music and physical therapy), the synthesis of results shows that compared to standard care or other types of comparators, the effectiveness was either controversial or partially effective.

CONCLUSIONS

The overall quality of evidence was rated low to very low. Future studies are needed to identify interventions that are the most effective in promoting preterm infants' early neurodevelopment during NICU hospitalization or close to term age. Interventions should be appropriately designed to allow comparison with previous studies and a combination of different instruments could provide a more global assessment of preterm infants' neurodevelopment and thus allow for comparisons across studies.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Prospero CRD42017047072 .

Neurobehaviour of very preterm infants at term equivalent age is related to early childhood outcomes

AIM

To describe neurodevelopmental outcomes during early childhood among infants born very preterm and define the relationships between neurobehaviour of very preterm infants and neurodevelopmental outcomes at 4 years.

METHODS

Forty-eight infants born ≤32 weeks gestation had neurobehaviour assessed at term equivalent age using the NICU Network Neurobehavioral Scale (NNNS). Outcomes at 4 years were assessed with the Ages and Stages Questionnaire (ASQ-3), the Sensory Profile-Short Form (SF) and the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function-Preschool version (BRIEF-P).

RESULTS

At 4 years, 23 (48%) children had at least one below average score on the ASQ-3, 15 (31%) had a below average total score on the Sensory Profile-SF, and 3 (6%) had an abnormal total score on the BRIEF-P. Children with lower fine motor scores at 4 years had poorer orientation (P = 0.03) and self-regulation (P =0.03), hypertonia (P = 0.01), and more sub-optimal reflexes (P = 0.02) as neonates. Children with lower gross motor scores at 4 years of age had more sub-optimal reflexes (P = 0.03) and lethargy (P = 0.046) as neonates. Children with tactile sensitivity at 4 years of age had poorer orientation (P = 0.01) and tolerance of handling (P = 0.03) as neonates. Children with decreased responsiveness at 4 years of age had low arousal (P = 0.02) as neonates, and those with poor auditory filtering at age 4 years had hypotonia (P = 0.03) as neonates.

CONCLUSION

Early neurobehaviour is related to neurodevelopmental outcome in early childhood.

Parameters characterizing the posture of preterm children in standing and sitting position

BACKGROUND

Systematic observations of fetal posture show that, although for most of the time the fetus does not have a preferred posture, it has a certain repertoire of repeated active postures. The observed postures cannot be considered random configurations of head and limb position: the fetus and the young infant have an active, but variable posture that is relatively unrelated to the orientation of the force of gravity.

MATERIALS AND METHOD

The study included 101 children, aged 6-7, including 50 preterm children, 48 boys and 53 girls (research group) and 51 full-term children; 22 boys and 53 girls (control group). The photogrammetric method with moire effect on Mora 4G CQ Elektronik was used to examine the body posture.

RESULTS

Significant statistical differences in GAMMA (p< 0.001) and KLL (p= 0.020) parameters in preterm children and in control group were noted. Both parameters presented higher value in the control group.

CONCLUSIONS

The posture of preterm children is characterized by a smaller angle of upper thoracic curvature and smaller angle of lumbar lordosis. The posture of preterm children in sitting position is characterized by a smaller angle of thoracic kyphosis. Preterm birth disturbs the development of proper antigravitational mechanism and causes possible posture dysfunctions at the age of 6.

Beyond Anesthesia Toxicity: Anesthetic Considerations to Lessen the Risk of Neonatal Neurological Injury

Infants who undergo surgical procedures in the first few months of life are at a higher risk of death or subsequent neurodevelopmental abnormalities. Although the pathogenesis of these outcomes is multifactorial, an understanding of the nature and pathogenesis of brain injury in these infants may assist the anesthesiologist in consideration of their day-to-day practice to minimize such risks. This review will summarize the main types of brain injury in preterm and term infants and their key pathways. In addition, the review will address key potential pathogenic pathways that may be modifiable including intraoperative hypotension, hypocapnia, hyperoxia or hypoxia, hypoglycemia, and hyperthermia. Each of these conditions may increase the risk of perioperative neurological injury, but their long-term ramifications are unclear.

Maternal Milk and Relationships to Early Neurobehavioral Outcome in Preterm Infants

The purpose of this study was to (1) define medical and sociodemographic factors related to maternal milk feedings and (2) explore relationships between maternal milk feeding and early neurobehavioral outcome. Ninety-two preterm infants born ≤ 32 weeks gestation had maternal milk feeding and breastfeeding tracked in this retrospective analysis. At 34 to 41 weeks postmenstrual age (PMA), neurobehavior was assessed with the NICU Network Neurobehavioral Scale. Maternal milk feeding was often delayed by the use of total parenteral nutrition, administered for a median of 11 (7-26) days, impacting the timing of gastric feeding initiation. Seventy-nine (86%) infants received some maternal milk during neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) hospitalization. Twenty-one (27%) infants continued to receive maternal milk at 34 to 41 weeks PMA, with 10 (48%) of those receiving maternal milk exclusively. Among mothers who initiated maternal milk feeds, 20 (25%) put their infants directly at the breast at least once during hospitalization. Mothers who were younger (P = .02), non-Caucasian (P < .001), or on public insurance (P < .001) were less likely to provide exclusive maternal milk feedings by 34 to 41 weeks PMA. Infants who received maternal milk at 34 to 41 weeks PMA demonstrated better orientation (P = .03), indicating they had better visual and auditory attention to people and objects in the environment. Our findings demonstrate a relationship between maternal milk feedings and better neurobehavior, which is evident before the infant is discharged home from the NICU.

Sources of clinically significant neonatal intensive care unit phthalate exposure

In the United States each year, more than 300,000 infants are admitted to neonatal intensive care units (NICU) where they are exposed to a chemical-intensive hospital environment during a developmentally vulnerable period. Although multiple studies have demonstrated elevated phthalate biomarkers in NICU patients, specific sources of NICU-based phthalate exposure have not been identified.In this study, premature newborns with birth weight <1500 g were recruited to participate in a prospective environmental health cohort during the NICU hospitalization. Exposure to specific NICU equipment was recorded daily during the NICU hospitalization. One hundred forty-nine urine specimens from 71 infants were analyzed for phthalate metabolites using high-performance liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry.In initial analyses, exposure to medical equipment was directly related to phthalate levels, with DEHP biomarkers 95-132% higher for infants exposed to specific medical equipment types compared to those without that equipment exposure (p < 0.001-0.023). This association was mirrored for clinically relevant phthalate mixtures whether composed of DEHP metabolites or not (p = 0.002-0.007). In models accounting for concurrent equipment use, exposure to respiratory support was associated with DEHP biomarkers 50-136% higher in exposed compared to unexposed infants (p = 0.007-0.036). Phthalate mixtures clinically relevant to neurobehavioral development were significantly associated with non-invasive respiratory support (p = 0.008-0.026). Feeding supplies and intravenous lines were not significantly associated with clinically important phthalate mixtures.Respiratory support equipment may be a significant and clinically relevant NICU source of phthalate exposure. Although manufacturers have altered feeding and intravenous supplies to reduce DEHP exposure, other sources of exposure to common and clinically impactful phthalates persist in the NICU.

Hammock and nesting in preterm infants: randomized controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

To compare the physiological variables and the sleep-wake pattern presented by preterm in nesting and hammock positions after diaper change.

METHOD

This is a crossover randomized controlled trial. It was conducted with 20 preterm infants who, after diaper change, were placed in nests or hammocks. These preterm infants were evaluated for physiological variables (heart rate and oxygen saturation) and behavioral variables (sleep and wakefulness).

RESULTS

There was no statistically significant difference in the studied variables between nesting and hammock positions. However, regarding the categorical variable sleep, the comparison between the research phases for the hammock position showed differences between the baseline phase and the immediate recovery (p=0.00), baseline and late recovery (p=0.00), response and immediate recovery (p=0.00), response and late recovery (p=0.00).

CONCLUSION

No differences were identified between the nest and the hammock; however, the use of the hammock favored the sleep of preterm infants compared to its non-use.

Neurodevelopmental Outcomes Among Children With Congenital Heart Disease: At-Risk Populations and Modifiable Risk Factors

As survivable outcomes among patients with complex congenital heart disease (cCHD) have continued to improve over the last several decades, more attention is being dedicated to interventions that impact not just survival but quality of life among patients with cCHD. In particular, patients with cCHD are at risk for impaired neurodevelopmental outcomes. In this review summarizing select presentations given at the 14th Annual Pediatric Cardiac Intensive Care Society's Annual Meeting in 2019, we discuss the neurodevelopmental phenotype of patients with cCHD, patients at greatest risk of impaired development, and three specific modifiable risk factors impacting development.

Knowledge Translation Lecture: Providing Best Practice in Neonatal Intensive Care and Follow-up: A Clinician-Researcher Collaboration

Knowledge translation is the process by which we take new information that is evidence based and incorporate it into our practice. While we can each incorporate evidence into our practice, the collaboration between a researcher and a clinician can advance the implementation of evidence-based practice. We highlight the use of the Plan-Do-Study-Act cycle that includes a researcher and clinical partner on a journey of research question development, knowledge generation, clinical implementation, and policy change that advances the care to infants in the neonatal intensive care unit and in a developmental follow-up clinic. The team provides examples of implementation and highlights the clinical care differences following a decade of collaboration. Pediatric physical therapists have a responsibility to embrace and support knowledge translation to advance our profession and the care of infants, children, and families.

Improving Neurodevelopmental Outcomes in NICU Patients

BACKGROUND

Premature infants experience stressors such as external stimulation with sounds, light, touch, and open positioning in NICU that negatively affect outcomes.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to measure the effectiveness of a developmental positioning intervention on length of stay, weight gain, and tone/flexion compared with neonates without structured positioning.

METHODS

Study design was quasi-experimental with nonequivalent groups. A retrospective chart review of 50 neonates with the inclusion criteria of 34 weeks of gestation or less and no anomalies provided a preintervention sample. After the education in-service on positioning, a convenience sample of 27 infants was enrolled. Infant Position Assessment Tool was used as a visual guide for positioning and scoring by the researcher for intervention fidelity. Hammersmith scoring was completed by the occupational therapist prior to discharge.

FINDINGS

The postintervention group was younger and sicker than the control group (P < .05). The postintervention sample (M = 7.05 where 7 = 29 to <30 weeks of gestation) was younger than the preintervention sample (M = 7.22). The postintervention sample was smaller (M = 1302.15 g) than the preintervention sample (M = 1385.94 g). Results showed that the postintervention group had clinically significant weight gain and mean Hammersmith score (3.28) was higher showing positioning positively affected tone and flexion scores.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

With greater structure and consistent attention to developmental positioning, outcomes are positively affected.

IMPLICATIONS FOR FUTURE RESEARCH

Further research with larger sample sizes will identify stronger associations and relationships between positioning and outcome measures.

Feasibility and Safety of the Preemie Orthotic Device to Manage Deformational Plagiocephaly in Extremely Low Birth Weight Infants

BACKGROUND

Premature infants are predisposed to developing deformational plagiocephaly. Deformational plagiocephaly may affect the infant's social well-being and neurobehavioral development.

PURPOSE

This pilot study investigated the feasibility and safety of the preemie orthotic device (POD); a noncommercial, supportive orthotic device to manage deformational plagiocephaly.

METHODS

The setting for this prospective, descriptive, phase 1 clinical trial was 2 urban and 1 suburban neonatal intensive care units that provided care for critically ill premature and term infants. Participants included a convenience sample of 10 premature extremely low-birth-weight infants weighing less than 1 kg. All participants received the experimental treatment with the POD. Time spent on the device with and without the supportive foam insert, provider perception, adverse events, and head shape measurements were collected to assess feasibility and safety of the device.

RESULTS

Participants had a median gestational age of 25.4 weeks and median birth weight of 0.673 kg. The POD was used a median of 21.2 hours per day and the foam insert was used a median of 11.1 hours per day. At enrollment, 1 participant had a normal cranial index compared with 5 participants at study completion. All participants had normal cranial symmetry at study enrollment and completion. No device-related adverse events were reported.

IMPLICATION FOR PRACTICE

The POD was found to be feasible and safe. Staff had favorable responses to the device. Recommendations by nursing staff included enlarging the device to extend its use.

IMPLICATION FOR RESEARCH

Further studies are warranted to assess the POD's effectiveness.

Effectiveness of paediatric occupational therapy for children with disabilities: A systematic review

INTRODUCTION

Paediatric occupational therapy seeks to improve children's engagement and participation in life roles. A wide variety of intervention approaches exist. Our aim was to summarise the best-available intervention evidence for children with disabilities, to assist families and therapists choose effective care.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic review (SR) using the Cochrane methodology, and reported findings according to PRISMA. CINAHL, Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, OTSeeker, PEDro, PsycINFO were searched. Two independent reviewers: (i) determined whether studies met inclusion: SR or randomised controlled trial (RCT); an occupational therapy intervention for children with a disability; (ii) categorised interventions based on name, core components and diagnostic population; (iii) rated quality of evidence and determined the strength of recommendation using GRADE criteria; and (iv) made recommendations using the Evidence Alert Traffic Light System.

RESULTS

129 articles met inclusion (n = 75 (58%) SRs; n = 54 (42%)) RCTs, measuring the effectiveness of 52 interventions, across 22 diagnoses, enabling analysis of 135 intervention indications. Thirty percent of the indications assessed (n = 40/135) were graded 'do it' (Green Go); 56% (75/135) 'probably do it' (Yellow Measure); 10% (n = 14/135) 'probably don't do it' (Yellow Measure); and 4% (n = 6/135) 'don't do it' (Red Stop). Green lights were: Behavioural Interventions; Bimanual; Coaching; Cognitive Cog-Fun & CAPS; CO-OP; CIMT; CIMT plus Bimanual; Context-Focused; Ditto; Early Intervention (ABA, Developmental Care); Family Centred Care; Feeding interventions; Goal Directed Training; Handwriting Task-Specific Practice; Home Programs; Joint Attention; Mental Health Interventions; occupational therapy after toxin; Kinesiotape; Pain Management; Parent Education; PECS; Positioning; Pressure Care; Social Skills Training; Treadmill Training and Weight Loss 'Mighty Moves'.

CONCLUSION

Evidence supports 40 intervention indications, with the greatest number at the activities-level of the International Classification of Function. Yellow light interventions should be accompanied by a sensitive outcome measure to monitor progress and red light interventions could be discontinued because effective alternatives existed.

Towards the Womb of Neonatal Intensive Care

Within the mother's womb, life finds its first stirrings. The womb shelters the fetus, the growing child within. We recognize the existential traces of a wombed existence when a newborn calms in response to being held; when a newborn stills in response to his or her mother's heartbeat; and, when a newborn startles in the presence of bright light. Yet, how does experiential human life begin within another human being? What are the conditions and paths of becoming for the fetus within the womb? And for the child born early, what "womb" welcomes the premature child in neonatal intensive care?

Targeted educational program improves infant positioning practice in the NICU

Quality problem or issue

Infant positioning may interfere with neuromotor development. Bedside education and Infant Positioning Assessment Tool (IPAT) improve nurses' and doctors' proficiency in applying proper infant positioning.

Initial assessment

Nursing compliance with proper positioning is suboptimal due to many factors. One factor was the inadequate knowledge and practice of infant positioning, since the baseline mean IPAT score was 3.4.

Choice of solution

Three experienced neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) nurses were chosen as position champions to help other NICU nurses apply proper positioning and monitor IPAT scores. Education and hands-on demonstration sessions were developed based on the observed baseline practice.

Implementation

Periodic education with hands-on demonstration was given to NICU nurses and residents. Infants' positions were objectively scored using IPAT. Two Plan, Do, Study and Act cycles were completed and adjustments were made based on each cycle's achieved results.

Evaluation

Mean IPAT scores increased from 3.4 at baseline and 6.3 in the second cycle to 7.3 in the third cycle of intervention.

Lessons learned

A systematic approach targeting infants' positioning succeeded in improving nurses' and residents' clinical performance. Not reaching significant change until after 18 months highlights the difficulty and complexity in changing behaviors.

Comparison of Massage and Prone Position on Heart Rate and Blood Oxygen Saturation Level in Preterm Neonates Hospitalized in Neonatal Intensive Care Unit: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background:

These days, most of the admitted infants in neonatal intensive care units (NICU) are premature infants. Infant massage and prone position has been recommended for several decades to have a positive effect on preterm and low birth weight infants. The objective of this study was to determine the effects of neonatal massage with prone positioning in preterm infants on Heart Rate (HR), and Oxygen Saturation (O₂Sa) status.

Materials and Methods:

This is a controlled randomized three-group clinical trial study conducted on hospitalized infants in selected hospitals of Alborz University of Medical Sciences in Karaj-Iran. There are about 75 preterm infants (33-37 weeks) who met inclusion criteria were randomly assigned to groups of position, massage as intervention groups, and a control group. Intervention (prone position and massage) was administrated for five straight days. The repeated measure ANOVA test was performed to evaluate and compare the effect of interventions. p value less than 0.05 was considered as statistical significance.

Results:

The Repeated Measure two-way Analysis of Variance (RM-ANOVA) result showed a significant difference in HR and SaO₂ in different time points among control, position and massage groups with RM-ANOVA (F_10,360 = 10.376, p < 0.001). HR values was reduced and SaO₂ values was increased in intervention groups with RM-ANOVA (F_5,360 = 2.323, p < 0.001).

Conclusions:

Results showed that massage and prone position equally led to the reduction of HR and increase of SaO₂, compared to control group.

Supporting Optimal Neurodevelopmental Outcomes in Infants and Children With Congenital Heart Disease

Improved survival has led to increased recognition of developmental delays in infants and children with congenital heart disease. Risk factors for developmental delays in congenital heart disease survivors may not be modifiable; therefore, it is important that lifesaving, high-technology critical care interventions be combined with nursing interventions that are also developmentally supportive. Implementing developmental care in a pediatric cardiac intensive care unit requires change implementation strategies and widespread support from all levels of health care professionals. This manuscript reviews developmentally supportive interventions such as massage, developmentally supportive positioning, kangaroo care, cue-based feeding, effective pain/anxiety management, and procedural preparation and identifies strategies to implement developmentally supportive interventions in the care of infants and children with congenital heart disease. Improving developmental support for these infants and children at high risk for developmental delay may improve their outcomes and help promote family-centered care.

Therapy services and specialized devices for conjoined twins: Unique challenges with conjoined twins and the importance of physical and occupational therapy

Conjoined twins are a rare occurrence that offer unique challenges and circumstances to therapists. The overall goal of physical and occupational therapy treatment is to provide care that promotes developmental progression to two conjoined individuals with distinct personalities and potentially different physical and medical needs. The unique presentation of conjoined twins must be considered in determining therapeutic goals, interventions and plans of care. Providing therapeutic interventions throughout the NICU stay is a dynamic, evolving process, which challenges the therapy team to work together to find solutions. This paper aims to highlight the considerations, challenges, and strategies used to address barriers in the therapeutic care of conjoined twins.

Clinical application of the Standard Operating Procedure of Positioning with Premature Infants

OBJECTIVE

To compare the physiological and behavioral responses of Premature Infant (PREEMIE) positioned by the Unit Routine Decubitus (URD) and the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP).

METHOD

A quasi-experimental comparative study performed at a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit in Southern Brazil. We evaluated 30 PREEMIEs with gestational age ≤32 weeks, randomly assigned to Unit Routine Decubitus (URD) and Intervention Group (IG), subdivided into Right Lateral Decubitus (RLD), Dorsal Decubitus (DD), Left Lateral Decubitus (LLD) and Ventral Decubitus (VD). It was evaluated before, during and after the procedure: Heart Rate (HR); Respiratory Frequency (RF); Peripheral Oxygen Saturation (SpO2); behavior by the Neonatal Behavioral Assessment Scale (NBAS); by NIPS.

RESULTS

During the intervention, RR (p = 0.023), indexes in NBAS (p = 0.01) and NIPS (p <0.0001) reduced significantly in SOP. HR and SpO2 did not present a significant difference.

CONCLUSION

Positioning according to the SOP shows benefit in relation to the behavioral and physiological status of PREEMIE.

Neonatal intensive care unit phthalate exposure and preterm infant neurobehavioral performance

Every year in the United States, more than 300,000 infants are admitted to neonatal intensive care units (NICU) where they are exposed to a chemical-intensive hospital environment during a developmentally vulnerable period. The neurodevelopmental impact of environmental exposure to phthalates during the NICU stay is unknown. As phthalate exposure during the third trimester developmental window has been implicated in neurobehavioral deficits in term-born children that are strikingly similar to a phenotype of neurobehavioral morbidity common among children born premature, the role of early-life phthalate exposure on the neurodevelopmental trajectory of premature infants may be clinically important. In this study, premature newborns with birth weight <1500g were recruited to participate in a prospective environmental health cohort study, NICU-HEALTH (Hospital Exposures and Long-Term Health), part of the DINE (Developmental Impact of NICU Exposures) cohort of the ECHO (Environmental influences on Child Health Outcomes) program. Seventy-six percent of eligible infants enrolled in the study. Sixty-four of 81 infants survived and are included in this analysis. 164 urine specimens were analyzed for phthalate metabolites using high-performance liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry. The NICU Network Neurobehavioral Scale (NNNS) was performed prior to NICU discharge. Linear and weighted quantile sum regression quantified associations between phthalate biomarkers and NNNS performance, and between phthalate biomarkers and intensity of medical intervention. The sum of di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate metabolites (∑DEHP) was associated with improved performance on the Attention and Regulation scales. Specific mixtures of phthalate biomarkers were also associated with improved NNNS performance. More intense medical intervention was associated with higher ∑DEHP exposure. NICU-based exposure to phthalates mixtures was associated with improved attention and social response. This suggests that the impact of phthalate exposure on neurodevelopment may follow a non-linear trajectory, perhaps accelerating the development of certain neural networks. The long-term neurodevelopmental impact of NICU-based phthalate exposure needs to be evaluated.

Neonatal Eating Outcome Assessment: tool development and inter-rater reliability

AIM

To define the process of tool development and revision for the Neonatal Eating Outcome (NEO) Assessment and to report preliminary inter-rater reliability.

METHODS

Tool development consisted of a review of the literature and observations of feeding performance among 178 preterm infants born ≤32 weeks gestation. 11 neonatal therapy feeding experts provided structured feedback to establish content validity and define the scoring matrix. The tool was then used to evaluate feeding in 50 preterm infants born ≤32 weeks of gestation and 50 full-term infants. Multiple revisions occurred at each stage of development. Finally, six neonatal occupational therapists participated in reliability testing by independently scoring five videos of oral feeding of preterm infants using version 4 of the tool.

RESULTS

The intraclass correlation for the 'prefeeding' score was 0.71 (0.37-0.96), and the intraclass correlation for the 'total' score was 0.83 (0.56-0.98).

CONCLUSION

The 'total' score had good to excellent reliability. Fleiss' Kappa scores for all 18 scorable items ranged from slight agreement to moderate agreement. Items with the lowest Kappa scores were revised, and additional feedback from therapists engaged in reliability testing was incorporated, resulting in final version 5.

Parent participation in the neonatal intensive care unit: Predictors and relationships to neurobehavior and developmental outcomes

OBJECTIVE

To 1) define predictors of parent presence, any holding, holding in arms, and skin-to-skin care in the NICU and 2) investigate the relationships between parent participation and a) early neurobehavior and b) developmental outcomes at age 4 to 5years among preterm infants.

METHODS

Eighty-one preterm infants born ≤32weeks estimated gestational age were prospectively enrolled within one week of life in a level III-IV NICU. Parent (maternal and paternal) presence and holding (including holding in arms and skin-to-skin care) were tracked throughout NICU hospitalization. Neurobehavior at term equivalent age and development at 4 to 5years were determined using standardized assessments.

RESULTS

The median number of days per week parents were documented to be present over NICU hospitalization was 4.0 (IQR=2.4-5.8) days; days held per week 2.8 (IQR=1.4-4.3) days [holding in arms days per week was 2.2 (IQR=1.2-3.2) days and parent skin-to-skin care days per week was 0.2 (IQR=0.0-0.7) days]. More parent presence was observed among mothers who were Caucasian, married, older, or employed and among those who had fewer children, familial support and provided breast milk (p<0.05). More holding was observed in infants with fewer medical interventions (p<0.05) and among those who were Caucasian, had a father who was employed, had fewer children and family support (p<0.05). More parent holding in the NICU was related to better reflex development at term age (p=0.02). More parent skin-to-skin care was related to better infant reflexes (p=0.03) and less asymmetry (p=0.04) at term and better gross motor development (p=0.02) at 4-5years.

DISCUSSION

Social and medical factors appear to impact parent presence, holding, and skin-to-skin care in the NICU. Parent holding is related to better developmental outcomes, which highlights the importance of engaging families in the NICU.

Does the Post-Feeding Position Affect Gastric Residue in Preterm Infants?

BACKGROUND

Body position affects the gastric emptying rate and hence the amount of gastric residue.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to analyze the effect of the post-feeding position of preterm infants on gastric residue.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This experimental study was conducted in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) of a university hospital (İnönü University Turgut Özal Medical Center) in Eastern Turkey. The study included 40 preterm infants weighing less than 2,000 g, who were fed orogastrically. The preterm infants were sequentially placed in four positions and were fed before each change of position. The infants were sequentially placed in the right lateral, left lateral, supine, and prone positions; their gastric residues were measured with a nasogastric tube. The gastric residue was recorded in percentages at 30, 60, 120, and 180 minutes. Ethical principles were applied in all phases of the study.

RESULTS

The lowest mean gastric residue level was observed in the right lateral position at 30 minutes (58.16 ± 12.71%) and 60 minutes (33.97 ± 15.00%). The prone position showed the lowest mean gastric residue level (1.74 ± 1.08%), followed by the right lateral (3.06 ± 1.97%), supine (3.53 ± 2.18%), and left lateral position (5.14 ± 1.85%) at 120 minutes. The final measurements were taken at 180 minutes with the right lateral position showing the lowest mean gastric residue level (0.38 ± 0.34%).

CONCLUSION

The premature infants had similar lower levels of gastric residue in the right lateral and prone positions and higher levels of gastric residue in left lateral and supine positions. The gastric emptying rate was found to be highest in the right lateral position at 30, 60, and 180 minutes and in the prone position at 120 minutes.

Validation of newborn positioning protocol in Intensive Care Unit

RESEARCH OBJECTIVE

to verify the positioning indications of newborn sand build a standard operating procedure protocol for newborn positioning in Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).

METHOD

for protocol validation, the Delphi technique was used ,in which expert nurses in the field reviewed the proposed procedure.

RESULTS

we present the results of this validation in a protocol form, to contribute to the discussion about newborn positioning in NICU and standardization of nursing care related to positioning. We evaluated ten indicators, in which there was agreementof100.0% in seven, and of80% in three, above the 60% recommended by the validation technique.

CONCLUSION

given the importance of newborn positioning in NICU for its neuromuscular development, this study contributes to the adoption of an evidence-based practice for nursing.

Assessing infant-oriented care with developmental support approach in Iranian NICUs

INTRODUCTION

Developmental care program is a comprehensive program to reduce secondary effects of NICU and special care on brain development in premature infants. This study aimed to assess neonatal care situation in Iranian NICUs based on developmental approach to design and provide clinical guidelines for daily care for the caregivers and the infant's family.

METHODS

This was a cross-sectional study conducted in NICU_S in Iran. A total of 23 NICUs of 9 Universities of Medical Sciences were investigated. The checklist contains 30 items in 6 domains. Data were analyzed using STATA software, version 13.

RESULTS

The total mean score obtained from all six domains was 31.29 of 100, and in all domains, the mean scores calculated were not above 50. In "supporting infant," "developmental caregiving activities," "supporting the infants' state organization," "providing neonatal pain management," "developmental care approaches in documentation," and "developmental care approaches in NICU staffing," the total mean scores were 34.76, 21.6, 20, 30.18, 31.30, and 50, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The low mean score of infant-centered developmental care implies health staff's focus on neonatal care with at least the quality of care and its impact on development in preterm infants, and inadequate attention to the infant as an active member in care.

Occupational therapy, physical therapy and speech-language pathology in the neonatal intensive care unit: Patterns of therapy usage in a level IV NICU

OBJECTIVES

1) To describe the use of occupational therapy (OT), physical therapy (PT) and speech-language pathology (SLP) services in a level IV neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), 2) to describe predictors of early therapy usage, and 3) to test the hypothesis that more NICU-based therapy will relate to better neurobehavioral outcomes.

METHODS

Seventy-nine infants born ≤32 weeks gestation had therapy interventions, as standard of care, tracked across NICU hospitalization. Infants received neurobehavioral testing prior to NICU discharge.

RESULTS

All (100%) received OT and PT, and 41 (51%) received SLP. The average age at initiation of OT, PT, and SLP was 30.4±1.4, 30.3±1.4, and 35.9±2.3 weeks postmenstrual age, respectively. Infants received therapy an average of 1.8±.4, 1.8±.4 and 1.1±.5 times per week for OT, PT and SLP, respectively. There were 56 different therapeutic interventions performed. There was overlap in the interventions provided by different NICU therapists; however, interventions unique to each discipline were identified. More therapy was not related to better neurobehavioral outcomes, but rather more frequent therapy could be attributed to more complex medical conditions (p<0.05).

CONCLUSION

Early therapy services in the NICU can start early in gestation and continue routinely until NICU discharge in order to optimize outcomes. These findings can aid our understanding of how neonatal therapy services are implemented in a level IV NICU.

Infant position in neonates receiving mechanical ventilation

BACKGROUND

In patients of various ages undergoing mechanical ventilation (MV), it has been observed that positions other than the standard supine position, such as the prone position, may improve respiratory parameters. The benefits of these positions have not been clearly defined for critically ill newborns receiving MV.This is an update of a review first published in 2005 and last updated in 2013.

OBJECTIVES

Primary objectiveTo assess the effects of different positioning of newborn infants receiving MV (supine vs prone, lateral decubitus or quarter turn from prone) in improving short-term respiratory outcomes. Secondary objectiveTo assess the effects of different positioning of newborn infants receiving MV on mortality and neuromotor and developmental outcomes over the long term, and on other complications of prematurity.

SEARCH METHODS

We used the standard search strategy of the Cochrane Neonatal Review Group to search the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL; 2016, Issue 8), MEDLINE via PubMed (1966 to 22 August 2016), Embase (1980 to 22 August 2016) and the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL; 1982 to 22 August 2016). We also searched clinical trials databases, conference proceedings and reference lists of retrieved articles for randomised controlled trials and quasi-randomised trials.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised and quasi-randomised clinical trials comparing different positions in newborns receiving mechanical ventilation.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Three unblinded review authors independently assessed trials for inclusion in the review and extracted study data. We used standard methodological procedures as expected by The Cochrane Collaboration and assessed the quality of the evidence using the GRADE approach. If the meta-analysis was not appropriate owing to substantial clinical heterogeneity between trials, we presented review findings in narrative format.

MAIN RESULTS

We included in this review 19 trials involving 516 participants. Seven of the included studies (N = 222) had not been evaluated in the previous review. Investigators compared several positions: prone versus supine, prone alternant versus supine, prone versus lateral right, lateral right versus supine, lateral left versus supine, lateral alternant versus supine, lateral right versus lateral left, quarter turn from prone versus supine, quarter turn from prone versus prone and good lung dependent versus good lung uppermost.Apart from two studies that compared lateral alternant versus supine, one comparing lateral right versus supine and two comparing prone or prone alternant versus the supine position, all included studies had a cross-over design. In five studies, infants were ventilated with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP); in the other studies, infants were treated with conventional ventilation (CV).Risks of bias did not differ substantially for different comparisons and outcomes. This update detects a moderate to high grade of inconsistency, similar to previous versions. However, for the analysed outcomes, the direction of effect was the same in all studies. Therefore, we consider that this inconsistency had little effect on the conclusions of the meta-analysis. When comparing prone versus supine position, we observed an increase in arterial oxygen tension (PO₂) in the prone position (mean difference (MD) 5.49 mmHg, 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.92 to 8.05 mmHg; three trials; 116 participants; I²= 0). When percent haemoglobin oxygen saturation was measured with pulse oximetry (SpO₂), improvement in the prone position was between 1.13% and 3.24% (typical effect based on nine trials with 154 participants; I²= 89%). The subgroup ventilated with CPAP (three trials; 59 participants) showed a trend towards improving SpO2 in the prone position compared with the supine position, although the mean difference (1.91%) was not significant (95% CI -1.14 to 4.97) and heterogeneity was extreme (I²= 95%).Sensitivity analyses restricted to studies with low risk of selection bias showed homogeneous results and verified a small but significant effect (MD 0.64, 95% CI 0.26 to 1.02; four trials; 92 participants; I²= 0).We also noted a slight improvement in the number of episodes of desaturation; it was not possible to establish whether this effect continued once the intervention was stopped. Investigators studied few adverse effects from the interventions in sufficient detail. Two studies analysed tracheal cultures of neonates after five days on MV, reporting lower bacterial colonisation in the alternating lateral position than in the supine posture. Other effects - positive or negative - cannot be excluded in light of the relatively small numbers of neonates studied.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

This update of our last review in 2013 supports previous conclusions. Evidence of low to moderate quality favours the prone position for slightly improved oxygenation in neonates undergoing mechanical ventilation. However, we found no evidence to suggest that particular body positions during mechanical ventilation of the neonate are effective in producing sustained and clinically relevant improvement.

Defining the nature and implications of head turn preference in the preterm infant

AIM

To determine the relationship of head turn preference in the preterm infant to: 1) perinatal medical factors, 2) neonatal neurobehavior, and/or 3) infant neurodevelopmental outcomes.

METHODS

Seventy preterm infants born ≤30weeks gestation were enrolled at birth. Detailed information regarding neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) medical course was compiled for each infant. Neurobehavioral testing was performed during NICU hospitalization. Head turn preference was quantified at term equivalent age using a newly developed scale. Infants returned at age two years for standardized developmental testing.

RESULTS

All infants demonstrated a head turning preference, with most preferring the right side (n=51, 77%). Fifty-five infants (79%) had moderate to severe head turn preference. Head turn preference was associated with 1) medical severity (hours of inotrope use, p=0.02; oxygen requirement at 36weeks postmenstrual age, p=0.03), 2) worse neurobehavioral performance (decreased self-regulation, p=0.007; more sub-optimal reflexes p=0.006), and 3) worse developmental outcome at age two years (poorer fine motor, p=0.02).

INTERPRETATION

Medical factors in the NICU appear to be associated with the development of a head turn preference. Increased severity of head turn preference may be a marker for poor developmental outcome. Early identification may inform therapeutic interventions designed to minimize symptoms and optimize neurodevelopmental outcome.