Kangaroo care compared to incubators in maintaining body warmth in preterm infants

Feasibility of the use of Kangaroo mother care in the transfer of preterm and low-birth-weight infants: a two-arm nonrandomized controlled cluster feasibility study of neonatal transport in Cape Coast, Ghana

BACKGROUND

Despite progress made towards SDG 3, sub-Saharan Africa lags behind the rest of the world, accounting for over 50% of global neonatal deaths. The increased number of hospital births in the region has not reciprocated the reduction in neonatal mortality rates. Sick newborns face uncertain journeys from peripheral facilities to specialized centres arriving in suboptimal conditions, which impacts their outcomes, due partly to the scarcity of dedicated neonatal transport services.

METHODS

This was a 2-arm nonrandomized controlled cluster study of preterm and low-birth-weight neonates transferred from eight peripheral sites to a tertiary neonatal unit via conventional methods or the KMC (August 2022-April 2023).

RESULTS

A total of 77 (mother-baby pairs) were recruited, 34 in the KMC group and 43 in the conventional arm. Most (60%) were transported by taxis/private cars. Overall mortality was 20.8%. No untoward event was recorded for neonates transported by KMC, with marginally better temperatures on arrival. Although the observed differences were not statistically significant given that this was not the primary aim, the findings add to evidence that KMC transport may not be more life-threatening than the current practice of transporting newborns in the caregiver's arms. KMC transport has the added advantage of ensuring non-separation of the small and sick child from its mother from birth and improved temperatures upon arrival.

CONCLUSION

KMC transport for preterm and Low birth weight infants using available transport in Sub-Saharan Africa is feasible. Local large-scale randomized trials are needed to gather more evidence for policy direction needed to inform a scale-up of this low-cost intervention.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ISRCTN98748162. Retrospectively registered 02.09.2024.

Identifying Latent Topics and Trends in Premature Infant-Related Nursing Studies Using a Latent Dirichlet Allocation Method

This study aimed to identify topics and within-topic core keywords in premature infant-related nursing studies published in Korean and international academic journals using topic modeling and to compare and analyze the trends in Korean and international studies. Journal databases were searched to extract nursing studies involving premature infants from 1998 to 2020. Journal databases included MEDLINE, Web of Science, CINAHL, and EMBASE for international studies and DBpia, the National Digital Science Library, the Korea Citation Index, and the Research Information Sharing Service for Korean studies. Abstracts from the selected 182 Korean and 2502 international studies were analyzed using NetMiner4.4.3e. In results, four similar topics (Korean vs international) were "pain intervention" versus "pain management"; "breast feeding practice" versus "breast feeding"; "kangaroo mother care"; and "parental stress" versus "stress & depression." Two topics that appeared only in the international studies were "infection management" and "oral feeding & respiratory care." Overall, the international studies dealt with diverse topics directly associated with premature. Korean studies mainly dealt with topics related to mothers of premature infants, whereas studies related to premature infants were insufficient. Nursing research in Korea needs to be expanded to research topics addressing premature infants.

Immediate skin-to-skin contact versus care under radiant warmer at birth in moderate to late preterm neonates - A randomized controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

To compare the effect of immediate care at birth in skin-to-skin contact (SSC) or under a radiant warmer on cardiorespiratory stability at 60 minutes of age in moderate-to-late preterm neonates.

METHODS

In this open-label, parallel-group, randomized controlled trial, neonates born at 330/7 to 366/7 weeks of gestation by vaginal delivery and breathing or crying were randomized to receive care at birth in SSC (n = 50) or under a radiant warmer (n = 50). In the SSC group, immediate care at birth including drying and clearing of the airway was provided in SSC over the mother's abdomen. SSC was maintained for an observational period of 60 minutes after birth. In the radiant warmer group, care at birth and post-birth observation was performed under an overhead radiant warmer. The primary outcome of the study was the stability of the cardio-respiratory system in late preterm infants (SCRIP) score at 60 minutes of age.

RESULTS

Baseline variables were similar in the two study groups. The SCRIP score at 60 minutes of age was similar in the two study groups (median: 5.0, IQR: 5-6 vs. 5.0, 5-6). The mean axillary temperature at 60 minutes of age was significantly lower in the SSC group (°C; 36.4 ± 0.4 vs. 36.6 ± 0.4, P = 0.004).

CONCLUSION

It was feasible to provide immediate care at birth in moderate and late preterm neonates while being positioned in SSC with the mother. However, in comparison to care under a radiant warmer, this did not lead to better cardiorespiratory stability at 60 minutes of age.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Clinical Trial Registry of India (CTRI/2021/09/036730).

Height and weight development of low-birth-weight infants at 9 months

BACKGROUND

Low birth weight (LBW) is defined as a birth weight <2500 g at birth, regardless of the term of pregnancy. The objective of this study was to evaluate the height and weight development of LBW infants from 0 to 9 months of corrected age (CA) in Senegal.

METHOD

This was a prospective, descriptive, and analytical cohort follow-up of up to 9 months of CA including all live newborns of LBW hospitalized and followed up from 1 August 2019 to 31 May 2020. World Health Organization growth charts were used to assess height and weight growth.

RESULTS

During the study, 136 LBW newborns were included. The mean gestational age was 32 weeks of amenorrhea. At discharge, 46 children (33.82%) were exclusively breastfed. At birth, the mean weight was 1487 g (3rd-10th percentile) and the mean height was 41.52 cm (10th-25th percentile). At 9 months of CA, the mean weight was 8119 g (median) and the mean height was 74 cm (median). The children had achieved satisfactory growth in weight (84%) and height (89%). At 9 months of CA, 27% of the children were behind in one of the four areas of psychomotor development.

CONCLUSION

At the end of 9 months of CA, height and weight were normal.

The Impact of Structured Kangaroo Care Education on Premature Infants' Weight Gain, Breastfeeding and Length of Hospitalization in Malaysia

Purpose

Kangaroo care is a complementary humanistic intervention based on a family-centered care model. This study investigated the effects of a locally contextualized, structured kangaroo care education program on weight gain, breastfeeding rate and length of hospitalization for premature infants.

Patients and Methods

This longitudinal quasi-experimental study with pre- and post-intervention design involved 96 infants born between 28 and 37 weeks of gestation for three months, and was carried out at a neonatal intensive care unit in Malaysia. The experimental group received a structured education program and careful monitoring of their kangaroo care practices, while the control group received routine care without a structured education program. The institutional review board approved the study design and registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04926402).

Results

The kangaroo care hours performed by mothers at baseline in the experimental and control group was 4.12 and 0.55 hours per week, respectively. At three months post-discharge, the experimental group had significantly higher weight gain, higher breastfeeding rates and shorter lengths of hospitalization than the control group.

Conclusion

A locally contextualized and structured kangaroo care education program is effective in the performance of kangaroo care. One hour per day of kangaroo care is positively associated with an extended period of breastfeeding, improved weight gain and shorter hospitalization of premature infants.

Initiation and duration of skin-to-skin contact for extremely and very preterm infants: A register study

AIM

This study sought to describe how skin-to-skin contact between extremely and very preterm infants and their parents is practised in Swedish neonatal units.

METHODS

Data from the Swedish Neonatal Quality Register from 2020 to 2021 were extracted to analyse initiation time and daily duration of skin-to-skin contact in different gestational ages and regions.

RESULTS

Of the 1475 infants in the cohort, mean (range) gestational age was 28 weeks (22-31), and mean (range) birthweight was 1205 g (360-2810). For extremely preterm infants (<28 weeks), median (interquartile range) skin-to-skin contact initiation time was at 88 postnatal hours (48-156) and 5% had skin-to-skin contact on the first day. For very preterm infants (<32 weeks), the corresponding numbers were 14 h (4-36) and 34%. Median (interquartile range) daily skin-to-skin contact duration for the entire cohort during the first day, first three and seven days and the remaining hospital stay was 0 (0-0), 0.7 (0-2.7), 1.6 (0.4-3.6) and 4.4 (3.0-6.1) h, respectively.

CONCLUSION

A minority of extremely and very preterm infants were exposed to skin-to-skin contact on the first postnatal day. Daily duration during the first week of life amounted to less than two hours. Initiation time and daily duration varied among gestational ages.

Using complexity science to understand the role of co-sleeping (bedsharing) in mother-infant co-regulatory processes

Human infants spend most of their time sleeping, but over the first few years of life their sleep becomes regulated to coincide more closely with adult sleep (Galland et al., 2012; Paavonen et al., 2020). Evidence shows that co-sleeping played a role in the evolution of infant sleep regulation, as it is part of an ancient behavioral complex representing the biopsychosocial microenvironment in which human infants co-evolved with their mothers through millions of years of human history (Ball, 2003; McKenna 1986, 1990). This paper is a conceptual, interdisciplinary, integration of the literature on mother-infant co-sleeping and other mother-infant co-regulatory processes from an evolutionary (biological) perspective, using complexity science. Viewing the mother-infant dyad as a "complex adaptive system" (CAS) shows how the CAS fits assumptions of regulatory processes and reveals the role of the CAS in the ontogeny of mother-infant co-regulation of physiological (thermoregulation, breathing, circadian rhythm coordination, nighttime synchrony, and heart rate variability) and socioemotional (attachment and cortisol activity) development.

Immediate parent-infant skin-to-skin study (IPISTOSS): study protocol of a randomised controlled trial on very preterm infants cared for in skin-to-skin contact immediately after birth and potential physiological, epigenetic, psychological and neurodevelopmental consequences

INTRODUCTION

In Scandinavia, 6% of infants are born preterm, before 37 gestational weeks. Instead of continuing in the in-utero environment, maturation needs to occur in a neonatal unit with support of vital functions, separated from the mother's warmth, nutrition and other benefits. Preterm infants face health and neurodevelopment challenges that may also affect the family and society at large. There is evidence of benefit from immediate and continued skin-to-skin contact (SSC) for term and moderately preterm infants and their parents but there is a knowledge gap on its effect on unstable very preterm infants when initiated immediately after birth.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

In this ongoing randomised controlled trial from Stavanger, Norway and Stockholm, Sweden, we are studying 150 infants born at 28+0 to 32+6 gestational weeks, randomised to receive care immediately after birth in SSC with a parent or conventionally in an incubator. The primary outcome is cardiorespiratory stability according to the stability of the cardiorespiratory system in the preterm score. Secondary outcomes are autonomic stability, thermal control, infection control, SSC time, breastfeeding and growth, epigenetic profile, microbiome profile, infant behaviour, stress resilience, sleep integrity, cortical maturation, neurodevelopment, mother-infant attachment and attunement, and parent experience and mental health.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

The study has ethical approval from the Swedish Ethical Review Authority (2017/1135-31/3, 2019-03361) and the Norwegian Regional Ethical Committee (2015/889). The study is conducted according to good clinical practice and the Helsinki declaration. The results of the study will increase the knowledge about the mechanisms behind the effects of SSC for very preterm infants by dissemination to the scientific community through articles and at conferences, and to the society through parenting classes and magazines.

STUDY STATUS

Recruiting since April 2018. Expected trial termination June 2021.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT03521310 (ClinicalTrials.gov).

Immediate skin-to-skin contact is feasible for very preterm infants but thermal control remains a challenge

AIM

Current care of very preterm infants in an incubator implies separation of the mother-infant dyad. The aim of this study was to determine whether skin-to-skin contact (SSC) between parent and very preterm infant from birth and during the first postnatal hour is feasible.

METHODS

Infants born in 2014-16 in Stockholm at gestational age 28 + 0-33 + 6 weeks were randomised to care provided in SSC with a parent or on a resuscitaire and later in an incubator or bed during the first postnatal hour. Infant body temperature was measured on admission to the neonatal unit and at one postnatal hour. Data on respiratory support and breastfeeding were prospectively collected.

RESULTS

We studied 55 infants at 32 + 0 ± 1.4 weeks (range 28 + 2-33 + 6), with birthweight 1760 g ± 449 g (range 885-2822). 60% were boys. Mean body temperature in the SSC group was 0.3°C lower 1 hour after birth, 36.3°C ± 0.52 (range 34.4-37.2) vs 36.6°C ± 0.42 (range 36.0-37.4, P = .03). No differences between groups were seen in respiratory support or breastfeeding.

CONCLUSION

Stabilisation of very preterm infants can be performed while in SSC with a parent, but caution needs to be paid to maintain normothermia.

Hypothermia among neonates admitted to the neonatal unit at a tertiary hospital in South Africa

OBJECTIVES

To determine the prevalence of hypothermia on admission and at 24 h of life in very low birth weight infants (VLBWI) and associated morbidity and mortality.

STUDY DESIGN

Hospital records of VLBWI admitted to a neonatal unit were reviewed for information on patient's body temperature, clinical characteristics and mortality. Comparisons between normothermic and hypothermic VLBWI were performed.

RESULTS

Mean gestational age and birth weight of enrolled infants were 29 ± 3 weeks and 1140 ± 253 g, respectively. Prevalence of admission hypothermia was 46.1%, with 38% developing hypothermia within 24-h following admission. VLBWI with hypothermia were more likely to have been born vaginally [aOR 2.85 (1.37-5.91)], have a birth weight < 1000 g [aOR 2.28 (1.25-4.16)], required resuscitation at birth [aOR 2.20 (1.23-3.94)], develop metabolic acidosis [aOR 3.04 (1.35-6.84)] and die within the first week of life [aOR 4.79 (1.43-16.02)].

CONCLUSIONS

Prevalence of hypothermia in VLBWI is high and is associated with poor outcomes.

An Observational Study on Early Dyadic Interactive Behaviors of Mothers With Early-Preterm, Late-Preterm, and Full-Term Infants in Malawi

BACKGROUND

Mother-infant interactions are necessary for infant growth and development. However, preterm birth is associated with less positive mother-infant interactions than full-term birth. Malawi has the highest preterm birth rate in the world, but studies of the mother-infant relationship in Malawi are limited and studies that observed mother-infant interactions could not be located.

PURPOSE

This study explored mother-infant interactions among Malawian mothers of early-preterm, late-preterm, and full-term infants.

METHODS

This observational study explored maternal and infant interactive behaviors. We recruited 83 mother-infant dyads (27 early-preterm, 29 late-preterm, and 27 full-term dyads).

FINDINGS

Mothers of early-preterm infants looked at and rocked their infants less, and their infants looked at their mothers less, than mothers of either late-preterm infants or full-term infants. The infants in all groups were asleep most of the time, which contributed to low levels of interactive behaviors. Factors that were related to infant behaviors included marital status, maternal occupation, maternal education, infant medical complications, infant gender, history of neonatal deaths, and multiple births.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

Our findings provide evidence about the need to encourage mothers to engage interactive behaviors with their infants.

IMPLICATIONS FOR RESEARCH

Future studies of factors that contribute to positive interactions in Malawi are needed.

The evolution of the science of kangaroo (mother) care (skin-to-skin contact)

In the early 1970s, researchers in Ohio, USA, investigated the effects of "Extra Contact" between mothers and their infants early after birth. The "Extra Contact" consisted of the skin-to-skin holding of the newborn infant on the mother's bare chest as soon as possible after birth. In the mid 1970s, Rey and Martinez in Bogota Colombia started investigating the same care method and they called it "Kangaroo Care" (KC). Infants are held upright, skin-to-skin on the mother's bare chest. KC, also referred to as Kangaroo Mother Care or Skin-to-Skin Contact, has been and continue to be investigated for its effects on a plethora of infant, maternal and family outcomes. Evolution of our understanding of the advantages of KC has dramatically changed the care of infants including at risk infants. This article provides a look at the past and present. It also provides insight on how we can shape the future to provide the optimal care for infants, mothers, and the whole family.

Social touch during development: Long-term effects on brain and behavior

In this paper, our goal is to explore what is known about the role of social touch during development. We first address the neural substrates of social touch and the role of tactile experience in neural development. We discuss natural variation in early exposure to social touch, followed by a discussion on experimental manipulations of social touch during development and "natural experiments", such as early institutionalization. We then consider the role of other developmental and experiential variables that predict social touch in adults. Throughout, we propose and consider new theoretical models of the role of social touch during development on later behavior and neurobiology.

Continuous, real-time monitoring of neonatal position and temperature during Kangaroo Mother Care using a wearable sensor: a techno-feasibility pilot study

Background

Remote biomonitoring of vital parameters in hospitals and homes has the potential to improve coverage and quality of maternal and neonatal health. Wearable sensors coupled with modern information and communication technology now offer an opportunity to monitor temperatures and kangaroo mother care (KMC) adherence in a continuous and real-time manner remotely for several days' duration in hospital and home settings. Using an innovative remote biomonitoring device to measure both temperature and baby position, we undertook a techno-feasibility study in preparation for a clinical trial.

Methods

We designed and developed a wearable sensor for tracking KMC adherence and neonatal temperature, using social innovation design principles. After screening mother-infant dyads using clinical and logistic eligibility criteria, we piloted this wearable sensor along with a gateway device and the commercial cellular network. The dyads were recruited during hospitalization and followed up in the hospital and home phases for several days. Simple descriptive statistical analysis was undertaken.

Results

Recruitment rate was 50% (6/12), and consenting rate was 83% (5/6) during a 2-month period. These five neonates contributed a total of 39 study days (15 hospital days and 24 home days). Their mean [± standard deviation (S.D.)] birth weight was 1490 (± 244) g.The mean (± S.D.) of the vital signs for the five babies was temperature [36.5 °C (± 0.3)], heart rate [146.5/min (± 14)], and oxygen saturation [94% (± 4)]. No severe or moderate side-effects were noted; one baby developed mild dermatitis under the device that was transient and self-limiting, yielding an incidence proportion of 20% and incidence rate of 2.6/100 person-days.None of the mothers reported any discomfort with the use of the device. Temperatures detected from 81 paired readings revealed that those from the wearable sensor were 0.2 °C lower than those detected by clinical thermometers [36.4 (± 0.7) vs 36.6 (± 0.3); < 0.001].There was also iterative feedback that was useful for hardware and software design specifications of the wearable sensor, the gateway device, and the analytics platform. Lastly, lessons were learnt with regard to the logistics of research team interactions with healthcare professionals and study participants during the hospitalization and post-discharge home phases of the study.

Conclusions

The pilot study has shown that it is feasible and acceptable to track KMC adherence as well as maternal and newborn temperatures in a potentially safe manner on a real-time mode for several days' duration during hospitalization and home phases. The pilot has also helped inform modifications in clinical monitoring, technological modifications, and logistics planning in preparation for the definitive clinical trial.

Trial registration

Clinical Trials Registry of India, CTRI/2017/09/009789.

Interventions to prevent hypothermia at birth in preterm and/or low birth weight infants

BACKGROUND

Newborn admission temperature is a strong predictor of outcomes across all gestations. Hypothermia immediately after birth remains a worldwide issue and, if prolonged, is associated with harm. Keeping preterm infants warm is difficult even when recommended routine thermal care guidelines are followed in the delivery room.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the efficacy and safety of interventions designed for prevention of hypothermia in preterm and/or low birth weight infants applied within 10 minutes after birth in the delivery room, compared with routine thermal care or any other single/combination of intervention(s) also designed for prevention of hypothermia in preterm and/or low birth weight infants applied within 10 minutes after birth in the delivery room.

SEARCH METHODS

We used the standard search strategy of Cochrane Neonatal to search the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL; 2016, Issue 5), MEDLINE via PubMed (1966 to 30 June 2016), Embase (1980 to 30 June 2016), and CINAHL (1982 to 30 June 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

Trials using randomised or quasi-randomised allocations to test interventions designed to prevent hypothermia (apart from 'routine' thermal care) applied within 10 minutes after birth in the delivery room for infants at < 37 weeks' gestation and/or birth weight ≤ 2500 grams.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

We used Cochrane Neonatal methods when performing data collection and analysis.

MAIN RESULTS

Twenty-five studies across 15 comparison groups met the inclusion criteria, categorised as: barriers to heat loss (18 studies); external heat sources (three studies); and combinations of interventions (four studies).Barriers to heat loss Plastic wrap or bag versus routine carePlastic wraps improved core body temperature on admission to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) or up to two hours after birth (mean difference (MD) 0.58°C, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.50 to 0.66; 13 studies; 1633 infants), and fewer infants had hypothermia on admission to the NICU or up to two hours after birth (typical risk ratio (RR) 0.67, 95% CI 0.62 to 0.72; typical risk reduction (RD) -0.25, 95% CI -0.29 to -0.20; number needed to treat for an additional beneficial outcome (NNTB) 4, 95% CI 4 to 5; 10 studies; 1417 infants). Risk of hyperthermia on admission to the NICU or up to two hours after birth was increased in infants in the wrapped group (typical RR 3.91, 95% CI 2.05 to 7.44; typical RD 0.04, 95% CI 0.02 to 0.06; number needed to treat for an additional harmful outcome (NNTH) 25, 95% CI 17 to 50; 12 studies; 1523 infants), but overall, fewer infants receiving plastic wrap were outside the normothermic range (typical RR 0.75, 95% CI 0.69 to 0.81; typical RD -0.20, 95% CI -0.26 to -0.15; NNTH 5, 95% CI 4 to 7; five studies; 1048 infants).Evidence was insufficient to suggest that plastic wraps or bags significantly reduce risk of death during hospital stay or other major morbidities, with the exception of reducing risk of pulmonary haemorrhage.Evidence of practices regarding permutations on this general approach is still emerging and has been based on the findings of only one or two small studies.External heat sourcesEvidence is emerging on the efficacy of external heat sources, including skin-to-skin care (SSC) versus routine care (one study; 31 infants) and thermal mattress versus routine care (two studies; 126 infants).SSC was shown to be effective in reducing risk of hypothermia when compared with conventional incubator care for infants with birth weight ≥ 1200 and ≤ 2199 grams (RR 0.09, 95% CI 0.01 to 0.64; RD -0.56, 95% CI -0.84 to -0.27; NNTB 2, 95% CI 1 to 4). Thermal (transwarmer) mattress significantly kept infants ≤ 1500 grams warmer (MD 0.65°C, 95% CI 0.36 to 0.94) and reduced the incidence of hypothermia on admission to the NICU, with no significant difference in hyperthermia risk.Combinations of interventionsTwo studies (77 infants) compared thermal mattresses versus plastic wraps or bags for infants at ≤ 28 weeks' gestation. Investigators reported no significant differences in core body temperature nor in the incidence of hypothermia, hyperthermia, or core body temperature outside the normothermic range on admission to the NICU.Two additional studies (119 infants) compared plastic bags and thermal mattresses versus plastic bags alone for infants at < 31 weeks' gestation. Meta-analysis of these two studies showed improvement in core body temperature on admission to the NICU or up to two hours after birth, but an increase in hyperthermia. Data show no significant difference in the risk of having a core body temperature outside the normothermic range on admission to the NICU nor in the risk of other reported morbidities.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Evidence of moderate quality shows that use of plastic wraps or bags compared with routine care led to higher temperatures on admission to NICUs with less hypothermia, particularly for extremely preterm infants. Thermal mattresses and SSC also reduced hypothermia risk when compared with routine care, but findings are based on two or fewer small studies. Caution must be taken to avoid iatrogenic hyperthermia, particularly when multiple interventions are used simultaneously. Limited evidence suggests benefit and no evidence of harm for most short-term morbidity outcomes known to be associated with hypothermia, including major brain injury, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, retinopathy of prematurity, necrotising enterocolitis, and nosocomial infection. Many observational studies have shown increased mortality among preterm hypothermic infants compared with those who maintain normothermia, yet evidence is insufficient to suggest that these interventions reduce risk of in-hospital mortality across all comparison groups. Hypothermia may be a marker for illness and poorer outcomes by association rather than by causality. Limitations of this review include small numbers of identified studies; small sample sizes; and variations in methods and definitions used for hypothermia, hyperthermia, normothermia, routine care, and morbidity, along with lack of power to detect effects on morbidity and mortality across most comparison groups. Future studies should: be adequately powered to detect rarer outcomes; apply standardised morbidity definitions; focus on longer-term outcomes, particularly neurodevelopmental outcomes.

Kangaroo mother care to reduce morbidity and mortality in low birthweight infants

BACKGROUND

Kangaroo mother care (KMC), originally defined as skin-to-skin contact between a mother and her newborn, frequent and exclusive or nearly exclusive breastfeeding, and early discharge from hospital, has been proposed as an alternative to conventional neonatal care for low birthweight (LBW) infants.

OBJECTIVES

To determine whether evidence is available to support the use of KMC in LBW infants as an alternative to conventional neonatal care before or after the initial period of stabilization with conventional care, and to assess beneficial and adverse effects.

SEARCH METHODS

We used the standard search strategy of the Cochrane Neonatal Review Group. This included searches in CENTRAL (Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials; 2016, Issue 6), MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL (Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature), LILACS (Latin American and Caribbean Health Science Information database), and POPLINE (Population Information Online) databases (all from inception to June 30, 2016), as well as the WHO (World Health Organization) Trial Registration Data Set (up to June 30, 2016). In addition, we searched the web page of the Kangaroo Foundation, conference and symposia proceedings on KMC, and Google Scholar.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomized controlled trials comparing KMC versus conventional neonatal care, or early-onset KMC versus late-onset KMC, in LBW infants.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Data collection and analysis were performed according to the methods of the Cochrane Neonatal Review Group.

MAIN RESULTS

Twenty-one studies, including 3042 infants, fulfilled inclusion criteria. Nineteen studies evaluated KMC in LBW infants after stabilization, one evaluated KMC in LBW infants before stabilization, and one compared early-onset KMC with late-onset KMC in relatively stable LBW infants. Sixteen studies evaluated intermittent KMC, and five evaluated continuous KMC. KMC versus conventional neonatal care: At discharge or 40 to 41 weeks' postmenstrual age, KMC was associated with a statistically significant reduction in the risk of mortality (risk ratio [RR] 0.60, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.39 to 0.92; eight trials, 1736 infants), nosocomial infection/sepsis (RR 0.35, 95% CI 0.22 to 0.54; five trials, 1239 infants), and hypothermia (RR 0.28, 95% CI 0.16 to 0.49; nine trials, 989 infants; moderate-quality evidence). At latest follow-up, KMC was associated with a significantly decreased risk of mortality (RR 0.67, 95% CI 0.48 to 0.95; 12 trials, 2293 infants; moderate-quality evidence) and severe infection/sepsis (RR 0.50, 95% CI 0.36 to 0.69; eight trials, 1463 infants; moderate-quality evidence). Moreover, KMC was found to increase weight gain (mean difference [MD] 4.1 g/d, 95% CI 2.3 to 5.9; 11 trials, 1198 infants; moderate-quality evidence), length gain (MD 0.21 cm/week, 95% CI 0.03 to 0.38; three trials, 377 infants) and head circumference gain (MD 0.14 cm/week, 95% CI 0.06 to 0.22; four trials, 495 infants) at latest follow-up, exclusive breastfeeding at discharge or 40 to 41 weeks' postmenstrual age (RR 1.16, 95% CI 1.07 to 1.25; six studies, 1453 mothers) and at one to three months' follow-up (RR 1.20, 95% CI 1.01 to 1.43; five studies, 600 mothers), any (exclusive or partial) breastfeeding at discharge or at 40 to 41 weeks' postmenstrual age (RR 1.20, 95% CI 1.07 to 1.34; 10 studies, 1696 mothers; moderate-quality evidence) and at one to three months' follow-up (RR 1.17, 95% CI 1.05 to 1.31; nine studies, 1394 mothers; low-quality evidence), and some measures of mother-infant attachment and home environment. No statistically significant differences were found between KMC infants and controls in Griffith quotients for psychomotor development at 12 months' corrected age (low-quality evidence). Sensitivity analysis suggested that inclusion of studies with high risk of bias did not affect the general direction of findings nor the size of the treatment effect for main outcomes. Early-onset KMC versus late-onset KMC in relatively stable infants: One trial compared early-onset continuous KMC (within 24 hours post birth) versus late-onset continuous KMC (after 24 hours post birth) in 73 relatively stable LBW infants. Investigators reported no significant differences between the two study groups in mortality, morbidity, severe infection, hypothermia, breastfeeding, and nutritional indicators. Early-onset KMC was associated with a statistically significant reduction in length of hospital stay (MD 0.9 days, 95% CI 0.6 to 1.2).

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Evidence from this updated review supports the use of KMC in LBW infants as an alternative to conventional neonatal care, mainly in resource-limited settings. Further information is required concerning the effectiveness and safety of early-onset continuous KMC in unstabilized or relatively stabilized LBW infants, as well as long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes and costs of care.

[Kangaroo mother care for low birth weight infants at Albert-Royer National Children Hospital Center of Dakar]

INTRODUCTION

Kangaroo care (KC) is an effective method to care for low birth weight (LBW) newborns, particularly in developing countries. The objective of this study was to estimate the efficacy of this method and its impact on morbidity and mortality of LBW infants admitted to the KC unit of Albert-Royer National Children's Hospital Center (ARNCHC) in Dakar, Senegal.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This was a retrospective, single-center study from July 2011 to July 2013. We collected sociodemographic, maternal, and obstetrical data, neonatal characteristics and information during KC (age and weight at inclusion, thermoregulation, feeding, growth, and overall progression). Data were entered and analyzed using SPSS version 9.0.

RESULTS

We included 135 newborns, with a female predominance (sex ratio: 0.78). One-third of the mothers (35.5%) were primiparous and only 21.1% had a socioprofessional activity and the majority had a low educational level. The mean gestational age (GA) was 33.08±2.06 weeks of amenorrhea and the mean birth weight 1485±370 g. There were 20 term babies with intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) (14.8%) and 115 (85.2%) preterm newborns, 83 (72.2%) of whom, showed IUGR. The mean duration of conventional care was 12.3 days (range: 4-27 days) and the main complications were respiratory distress (46.2%), infection (36.9%), and necrotizing enterocolitis (15.1%). At KC admission, the mean post-conceptional age was 34.2±2.46 weeks and the mean weight 1445±319 g (minimum, 700 g). The main complications in KC were infections (20.2%), hypoglycemia (18.5%), and gastro-esophageal reflux disease (16.4%). Only 56.3% of the babies were exclusively breastfed. The mean weight gain during the stay in the KC unit was 15.3±9.08 g/kg/day and the mean weight at discharge was 1761±308 g. Only three episodes of hypothermia were noted. The mean duration in the KC unit was 10.2 days (range: 3-24 days). Five babies died (3.7%): one during KC, one at home, and the three others after readmission to neonatology.

CONCLUSION

Kangaroo care for LBW infants is highly effective in our context. This method should be spread to a large majority of health centers in the country.

Kangaroo Mother Care and Neonatal Outcomes: A Meta-analysis

CONTEXT

Kangaroo mother care (KMC) is an intervention aimed at improving outcomes among preterm and low birth weight newborns.

OBJECTIVE

Conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis estimating the association between KMC and neonatal outcomes.

DATA SOURCES

PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, African Index Medicus (AIM), Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences Information System (LILACS), Index Medicus for the Eastern Mediterranean Region (IMEMR), Index Medicus for the South-East Asian Region (IMSEAR), and Western Pacific Region Index Medicus (WPRIM).

STUDY SELECTION

We included randomized trials and observational studies through April 2014 examining the relationship between KMC and neonatal outcomes among infants of any birth weight or gestational age. Studies with <10 participants, lack of a comparison group without KMC, and those not reporting a quantitative association were excluded.

DATA EXTRACTION

Two reviewers extracted data on study design, risk of bias, KMC intervention, neonatal outcomes, relative risk (RR) or mean difference measures.

RESULTS

1035 studies were screened; 124 met inclusion criteria. Among LBW newborns, KMC compared to conventional care was associated with 36% lower mortality(RR 0.64; 95% [CI] 0.46, 0.89). KMC decreased risk of neonatal sepsis (RR 0.53, 95% CI 0.34, 0.83), hypothermia (RR 0.22; 95% CI 0.12, 0.41), hypoglycemia (RR 0.12; 95% CI 0.05, 0.32), and hospital readmission (RR 0.42; 95% CI 0.23, 0.76) and increased exclusive breastfeeding (RR 1.50; 95% CI 1.26, 1.78). Newborns receiving KMC had lower mean respiratory rate and pain measures, and higher oxygen saturation, temperature, and head circumference growth.

LIMITATIONS

Lack of data on KMC limited the ability to assess dose-response.

CONCLUSIONS

Interventions to scale up KMC implementation are warranted.

Understanding kangaroo care and its benefits to preterm infants

The holding of an infant with ventral skin-to-skin contact typically in an upright position with the swaddled infant on the chest of the parent, is commonly referred to as kangaroo care (KC), due to its simulation of marsupial care. It is recommended that KC, as a feasible, natural, and cost-effective intervention, should be standard of care in the delivery of quality health care for all infants, regardless of geographic location or economic status. Numerous benefits of its use have been reported related to mortality, physiological (thermoregulation, cardiorespiratory stability), behavioral (sleep, breastfeeding duration, and degree of exclusivity) domains, as an effective therapy to relieve procedural pain, and improved neurodevelopment. Yet despite these recommendations and a lack of negative research findings, adoption of KC as a routine clinical practice remains variable and underutilized. Furthermore, uncertainty remains as to whether continuous KC should be recommended in all settings or if there is a critical period of initiation, dose, or duration that is optimal. This review synthesizes current knowledge about the benefits of KC for infants born preterm, highlighting differences and similarities across low and higher resource countries and in a non-pain and pain context. Additionally, implementation considerations and unanswered questions for future research are addressed.

Close to me: enhancing kangaroo care practice for NICU staff and parents

PURPOSE

The benefits of kangaroo care (KC) are well supported by previously published studies, yet KC is offered inconsistently and faces obstacles in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). The March of Dimes designed Close to Me to facilitate and increase KC in NICUs. The program incorporates KC education for nurses and parents, as well as awareness and comfort components. The purpose of this study was to assess whether Close to Me increased favorable attitudes toward KC among nurses and parents, and changed nurse and parent behaviors to implement KC earlier, more often and for longer duration.

SUBJECTS AND DESIGN

This study took place in 5 NICUs with 48 nurse participants and 101 parent participants. It used a pre-/postprogram implementation design for nurses and a nonequivalent comparison versus intervention group design for parents.

METHODS

Nurses and parents were surveyed on knowledge, attitudes, perceived behavioral control, and behavior. Comparisons were made pre- and postprogram implementation for nurses and between intervention and comparison groups for parents. Nurse focus groups were conducted pre- and postimplementation and analyzed using a constant comparative analysis method. Parents recorded care behaviors and satisfaction in journals, which were analyzed similarly.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES/PRINCIPAL RESULTS

After the Close to Me intervention, nurses reported more positive attitudes toward KC (P = .04), increased transfer of ventilated babies from incubators to parents (P = .01), and more parents requesting KC. Parents who received Close to Me had greater knowledge about KC (P = .03) compared with those who did not. With the Close to Me intervention, all babies born at less than 28 weeks' gestation had KC by the age of 12 days, whereas without the intervention, some did not have KC until the age of 31 days (P < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

March of Dimes Close to Me improved knowledge and behavior regarding KC in NICUs. By offering KC education to parents, providing KC awareness and comfort components, and providing information and encouragement on the benefits and feasibility of KC to nurses, hospitals can potentially promote earlier and more frequent use of KC, particularly with infants born less than 28 weeks' gestation.

Kangaroo care: cardio-respiratory relationships between the infant and caregiver

BACKGROUND

Kangaroo care, i.e., skin-to-skin cohabitation (SSC) between an infant and caregiver, is often used in neonatal intensive care units to promote bonding, breastfeeding and infant growth. The direct salutary effects of SSC on cardio-respiratory control in preterm infants remain equivocal; some reports suggest improved breathing stability, others indicate worsening of apnea, bradycardia and hypoxemia.

AIM

The purpose of this study was to investigate physiological relationships between the infant and caregiver during SSC. We hypothesized that respiratory stability of the premature infant is influenced by the caregiver's heartbeat.

DESIGN

A prospective study was performed in eleven preterm infants (6 female; mean PCA 32 wks). SSC was compared to a preceding incubator-control period (CTL) matched for time from feed and condition duration. Abdominal respiratory movement, electrocardiogram, skin temperature and blood-oxygen levels were recorded from the infant and the caregiver.

RESULTS

During CTL, infant interbreath interval variance (IBIv; respiratory instability) was directly related to its own heart rate variance (HRv; rho=0.770, p=0.009). During SSC, infant IBIv and apnea incidence were each related to caregiver HRv (rho 0.764, p=0.006; rho 0.677, p=0.022, respectively). Infant cardio-respiratory coupling was also enhanced during SSC compared to CTL in the eupneic frequency range (0.7-1.5 Hz, p=0.018) and reduced for slower frequencies (0.15-0.45 Hz; p=0.036).

CONCLUSION

These findings suggest that during SSC, respiratory control of the premature infant is influenced by the caregiver's cardiac rhythm. We propose that the caregiver's heartbeat causes sensory perturbations of the infant via somatic or other afferents, revealing a novel cohabitation-induced feed-back mechanism of respiratory control in the neonate.

Maternally administered interventions for preterm infants in the NICU: effects on maternal psychological distress and mother-infant relationship

Although studies have examined the effects of interventions focused on preterm infants, few studies have examined the effects on maternal distress (anxiety, depressive symptoms, post-traumatic stress symptoms, parenting stress) or parenting. This study examined the effects of the auditory-tactile-visual-vestibular (ATVV) intervention and kangaroo care (KC) on maternal distress and the mother-infant relationship compared to an attention control group. 240 mothers from four hospitals were randomly assigned to the three groups. Maternal characteristics in the three groups were similar: 64.1% of ATVV mothers, 64.2% of KC mothers, and 76.5% of control mothers were African American; maternal age averaged 26.3 years for ATVV mothers, 28.1 for KC mothers, and 26.6 for control mothers; and years of education averaged 13.6 for ATVV and KC mothers, and 13.1 for control mothers. Mothers only differed on parity: 68.4% of ATVV and 54.7% of KC mothers were first-time mothers as compared to 43.6% of control mothers. Their infants had a similar mean gestational ages (27.0 weeks for ATVV, 27.2 for KC, and 27.4 for control) and mean birthweights (993 g for ATVV, 1022 for KC, and 1023 for control). Mothers completed questionnaires during hospitalization, and at 2, 6 and 12 months corrected age on demographic characteristics, depressive symptoms, state anxiety, post-traumatic stress symptoms, parenting stress, worry about child health, and child vulnerability (only at 12 months). At 2 and 6 months, 45-min videotapes of mother-infant interactions were made, and the HOME Inventory was scored. Behaviors coded from the videotapes and a HOME subscale were combined into five interactive dimensions: maternal positive involvement and developmental stimulation and child social behaviors, developmental maturity, and irritability. Intervention effects were examined using general linear mixed models controlling for parity and recruitment site. The groups did not differ on any maternal distress variable. Kangaroo care mothers showed a more rapid decline in worry than the other mothers. The only interactive dimensions that differed between the groups were child social behaviors and developmental maturity, which were both higher for kangaroo care infants. Change over time in several individual infant behaviors was affected by the interventions. When mothers reported on the interventions they performed, regardless of group assignment, massage (any form including ATVV) was associated with a more rapid decline in depressive symptoms and higher HOME scores. Performing either intervention was associated with lower parenting stress. These findings suggest that as short-term interventions, KC and ATVV have important effects on mothers and their preterm infants, especially in the first half of the first year.

Kangaroo mother care to reduce morbidity and mortality in low birthweight infants

BACKGROUND

Kangaroo mother care (KMC), originally defined as skin-to-skin contact between a mother and her newborn, frequent and exclusive or nearly exclusive breastfeeding, and early discharge from hospital, has been proposed as an alternative to conventional neonatal care for low birthweight (LBW) infants.

OBJECTIVES

To determine whether there is evidence to support the use of KMC in LBW infants as an alternative to conventional neonatal care.

SEARCH METHODS

The standard search strategy of the Cochrane Neonatal Group was used. This included searches in MEDLINE, EMBASE, LILACS, POPLINE, CINAHL databases (all from inception to March 31, 2014) and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (The Cochrane Library, Issue 3, 2014) In addition, we searched the web page of the Kangaroo Foundation, conference and symposia proceedings on KMC, and Google scholar.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomized controlled trials comparing KMC versus conventional neonatal care, or early onset KMC (starting within 24 hours after birth) versus late onset KMC (starting after 24 hours after birth) in LBW infants.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Data collection and analysis were performed according to the methods of the Cochrane Neonatal Review Group.

MAIN RESULTS

Eighteen studies, including 2751 infants, fulfilled inclusion criteria. Sixteen studies evaluated KMC in LBW infants after stabilization, one evaluated KMC in LBW infants before stabilization, and one compared early onset KMC with late onset KMC in relatively stable LBW infants. Thirteen studies evaluated intermittent KMC and five evaluated continuous KMC. At discharge or 40-41 weeks' postmenstrual age, KMC was associated with a reduction in the risk of mortality (typical risk ratio (RR) 0.60, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.39 to 0.92; eight trials, 1736 infants), nosocomial infection/sepsis (typical RR 0.45, 95% CI 0.27 to 0.76), hypothermia (typical RR 0.34, 95% CI 0.17 to 0.67), and length of hospital stay (typical mean difference 2.2 days, 95% CI 0.6 to 3.7). At latest follow up, KMC was associated with a decreased risk of mortality (typical RR 0.67, 95% CI 0.48 to 0.95; 11 trials, 2167 infants) and severe infection/sepsis (typical RR 0.56, 95% CI 0.40 to 0.78). Moreover, KMC was found to increase some measures of infant growth, breastfeeding, and mother-infant attachment. There were no significant differences between KMC infants and controls in neurodevelopmental and neurosensory impairment at one year of corrected age. Sensitivity analysis suggested that the inclusion of studies with high risk of bias did not affect the general direction of findings or the size of the treatment effect for the main outcomes.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

The evidence from this updated review supports the use of KMC in LBW infants as an alternative to conventional neonatal care mainly in resource-limited settings. Further information is required concerning effectiveness and safety of early onset continuous KMC in unstabilized or relatively stabilized LBW infants, long term neurodevelopmental outcomes, and costs of care.

Practical application of kangaroo mother care in preterm infants: clinical characteristics and safety of kangaroo mother care

AIM

To determine the clinical characteristics and safety of kangaroo mother care (KMC) according to the gestational age (GA) or postmenstrual age (PMA).

METHODS

We conducted a prospective clinical study in 31 infants between 25 and 32 weeks' GA. The subjects were categorized into two groups (25-28 weeks' and 29-32 weeks' GA groups) to compare the clinical characteristics associated with KMC. Heart rate, respiratory rate, oxygen saturation, blood pressure and body temperature (BT) were longitudinally assessed for 60 min with respect to the PMA group (29-32 weeks' and 33-36 weeks' PMA groups).

RESULTS

The authors analyzed 70 sessions with 31 infants (25-32 weeks' GA, birth weight 760-1740 g, 29-36 weeks' PMA). All infants had statistically significant higher temperatures during KMC than before KMC within clinically acceptable limits (P<0.001). We found a significantly lower variation of BT in the 25-28 weeks' GA group compared with the 29-32 weeks' GA group at 33-36 weeks' PMA, suggesting accelerated skin maturation in more premature infants (P<0.001).

CONCLUSION

Our intermittent KMC was a safe and feasible method for preterm infants. Notably, at the same PMA, preterm infants in the lower at-birth GA group showed an advanced maturation of thermoregulation compared with those in the higher GA group.

Maternal satisfaction with administering infant interventions in the neonatal intensive care unit

OBJECTIVE

To examine mothers' satisfaction with administering interventions for their preterm infants and with the helpfulness of the study nurse by comparing massage with auditory, tactile, visual, and vestibular stimulation (ATVV intervention), kangaroo care, and education about equipment needed at home and to explore whether mother and infant characteristics affected maternal satisfaction ratings.

DESIGN

Three-group experimental design.

SETTING

Four neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) (two in North Carolina, two in Illinois).

PARTICIPANTS

Two hundred and eight (208) preterm infants and their mothers.

METHODS

When the infant was no longer critically ill, mother/infant dyads were randomly assigned to ATVV, kangaroo care, or the education group all taught by study nurses. At discharge and 2 months corrected age, mothers completed questionnaires.

RESULTS

All groups were satisfied with the intervention and with nurse helpfulness, and the degree of satisfaction did not differ among them. Intervention satisfaction, but not nurse helpfulness, was related to recruitment site. Older, married, and minority mothers were less satisfied with the intervention but only at 2 months. Higher anxiety was related to lower intervention satisfaction at discharge and lower ratings of nurse helpfulness at discharge and 2 months. More depressive symptoms were related to lower nurse helpfulness ratings at 2 months.

CONCLUSIONS

Mothers were satisfied with interventions for their infants regardless of the intervention performed. Maternal satisfaction with the intervention was related to recruitment site, maternal demographic characteristics, and maternal psychological distress, especially at 2 months. Thus, nursing interventions that provide mothers with a role to play in the infant's care during hospitalization are particularly likely to be appreciated by mothers.

Nonpharmacological management of pain during common needle puncture procedures in infants: current research evidence and practical considerations

All infants undergo painful procedures involving skin puncture as part of routine medical care. Pain from needle puncture procedures is suboptimally managed. Numerous nonpharmacologic interventions are available for these painful procedures, including swaddling, holding, skin-to-skin care, pacifier, sweet-tasting solutions, and breast-feeding. Adoption of nonpharmacologic pain-relieving interventions into routine clinical practice is feasible and should be a standard of care in the delivery of quality health care for infants. This review summarizes current knowledge about the epidemiology of pain from common needle puncture procedures in infants, the effectiveness of nonpharmacologic interventions, implementation considerations, and unanswered questions for future research.

Frequency of Premature Infant Engagement and Disengagement Behaviors During Two Maternally Administered Interventions

Although sensitive maternal behaviors improve later quality of mother-infant interaction and subsequently infant development, little is known regarding how an intervention might promote early premature infant social interactive behavior. This study compared the frequency of premature infant engagement and disengagement behaviors during two maternally administered interventions, the multi-sensory auditory, tactile, visual and vestibular intervention (ATVV) and kangaroo care (KC) for 26 infants between 31 and 46 weeks PMA. The ATVV intervention elicited more disengagement (M = 24 vs. 12, p = .0003), trended toward more engagement (M = 21 vs. 15.7, p = .06) and more potent engagement (M = 24 vs. 12, p = .0003), subtle disengagement (M = 25 vs. 11.9, p < .0001), and potent disengagement (M = 22.9 vs. 14, p = . 006) behaviors than did KC. The ATVV intervention may be an intervention to promote the infant's learning how to regulate engagement and disengagement behaviors.

Kangaroo mother care may help oral growth and development in premature infants

Premature infants have a shorter prenatal development period and are prone to many serious medical problems during neonatal period. This may impact the development of oral tissues, as manifested by enamel hypoplasia, palatal distortion, malocclusion, or delay in tooth eruption and maturation. Kangaroo mother care (KMC) is a standardized and protocol-based care system for premature infants, based on skin-to-skin contact between the infant and their mother. Kangaroo mother care has been demonstrated to greatly improve the nurturing of premature infants and comparatively reduce the risk factors of oral defects. We hypothesize that KMC also facilitates oral growth and development in premature infants.

Challenges of immediate newborn care in maternity units in Lagos, Nigeria: an observational study

Substandard newborn care has been identified as a major contributor to the estimated annual 4 million neonatal deaths and 1 million fresh stillbirths. Low-income countries, including Nigeria account for more than 95% of all cases. A cross-sectional comparative study utilising non-participant observation methods was used to study perinatal care at two maternity centres in Lagos, Nigeria. Data on 63 mother-baby pairs were included in the study. Two stillbirths and two early neonatal deaths occurred during the study period, equally divided between the two hospitals. The partograph, a crucial tool for monitoring progress of labour, was in use in 77.4% vs 50% of cases at the two centres. The only interventions utilised for the prevention of hypothermia were drying and covering newborns with towels. Hygiene routines were poor and caring procedures did not demonstrate adequate knowledge related to a newborn's health. An enabling environment and supportive supervision is urgently required.

Effect of skin-to-skin contact on preterm infant skin barrier function and hospital-acquired infection

Background

The preterm infants' skin is structurally and functionally immature at birth because of immature stratum corneum barrier function, leading to problems with fluid loses, thermoregulation, and infection. Two parameters of barrier function can be non-invasively assessed: Stratum Corneum Hydration (SCH) and Transepidermal Water Loss (TEWL). Skin-to-Skin Care (SSC) is the proposed independent variable that might affect barrier function by decreasing TEWL and increasing SCH, thereby improving stratum corneum barrier function and consequently decreasing the rate of infection. No study of SSC's effects on TEWL and SCH of preterm infants could be found. The purpose of the study was to determine the effect of 5 daily Skin-to-Skin Contact sessions on infant skin hydration (SCH), transepidermal evaporated water loss (TEWL), and on SCH when TEWL was controlled, and on the presence of hospital acquired infection.

Methods

A one-group pretest-test-posttest design with 10 preterm infants (28 - 30 wks GA < 32 wks postmenstrual age, and no infection at entry). Test = 90 minutes of SSC; pre-test and post-test = 30 minutes each of prone positioning in an incubator. SCH and TEWL were taken on Days 1 and 5 at the beginning, middle and end of each period using Multi-Probe Adaptor. A 3 X 3 X 2 Repeated Measures Mixed Models Design, including a covariate, was used to analyze level of Skin Hydration. Specifically, the model tested comparisons in SCH made across repetitions, time, and days, as well as all possible interactions while controlling for TEWL. Descriptive statistics described the number of positive blood cultures during hospitalization and the presence of infections four weeks post-discharge.

Results

Significant differences in skin hydration were found across TIME (Pre-SSC, SSC, Post-SSC) (F = 21.86; p < 0.001). One infant had a positive blood culture during hospitalization; no infants had signs of infection by 4 weeks post-discharge.

Conclusions

The study has begun fulfilling the recommendation that SSC be tested as a strategy to improve skin hydration, but reveals that evaporative loss may be higher during SSC than during incubator care, and that the higher transepidermal evaporated water loss values may not necessarily be detrimental because few infections occurred even in its presence. A definitive randomized controlled trial is recommended.

Keywords

Skin-to-skin contact; Skin hydration; Transepidermal water loss; Infection; Preterm

Procedural pain management for neonates using nonpharmacological strategies: part 2: mother-driven interventions

This is the second of a 2-part series to provide an overview of our current level of knowledge related to nonpharmacological strategies to diminish the pain associated with commonly performed procedures in the NICU. In our first article we discussed the prevalence of repeated pain exposure in the NICU and the importance of nonpharmacological strategies specifically containment or facilitated tucking, swaddling, positioning, nonnutritive sucking, and sweet solutions. These strategies are generally nurse-driven and we believe their importance has been underutilized. In this article we will emphasize the importance of maternal presence as a mediator for pain relief. The efficacy of breastfeeding, maternal skin-to-skin care (often referred to as kangaroo care), and multisensorial stimulation such as auditory and olfactory recognition will be the primary focus of our discussion. In addition, although primarily mother-driven, these strategies are ultimately nurse-enabled, thus the importance of this connection cannot be under appreciated with respect to successful implementation in the NICU.

Kangaroo mother care to reduce morbidity and mortality in low birthweight infants

BACKGROUND

Kangaroo mother care (KMC), originally defined as skin-to-skin contact between a mother and her newborn, frequent and exclusive or nearly exclusive breastfeeding, and early discharge from hospital, has been proposed as an alternative to conventional neonatal care for low birthweight (LBW) infants.

OBJECTIVES

To determine whether there is evidence to support the use of KMC in LBW infants as an alternative to conventional neonatal care.

SEARCH STRATEGY

The standard search strategy of the Cochrane Neonatal Group was used. This included searches of MEDLINE, EMBASE, LILACS, POPLINE, CINAHL databases (from inception to January 31, 2011), and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (The Cochrane Library, Issue 1, 2011). In addition, we searched the web page of the Kangaroo Foundation, conference and symposia proceedings on KMC, and Google scholar.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomized controlled trials comparing KMC versus conventional neonatal care, or early onset KMC (starting within 24 hours after birth) versus late onset KMC (starting after 24 hours after birth) in LBW infants.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Data collection and analysis were performed according to the methods of the Cochrane Neonatal Review Group.

MAIN RESULTS

Sixteen studies, including 2518 infants, fulfilled inclusion criteria. Fourteen studies evaluated KMC in LBW infants after stabilization, one evaluated KMC in LBW infants before stabilization, and one compared early onset KMC with late onset KMC in relatively stable LBW infants. Eleven studies evaluated intermittent KMC and five evaluated continuous KMC. At discharge or 40 - 41 weeks' postmenstrual age, KMC was associated with a reduction in the risk of mortality (typical risk ratio (RR) 0.60, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.39 to 0.93; seven trials, 1614 infants), nosocomial infection/sepsis (typical RR 0.42, 95% CI 0.24 to 0.73), hypothermia (typical RR 0.23, 95% CI 0.10 to 0.55), and length of hospital stay (typical mean difference 2.4 days, 95% CI 0.7 to 4.1). At latest follow up, KMC was associated with a decreased risk of mortality (typical RR 0.68, 95% CI 0.48 to 0.96; nine trials, 1952 infants) and severe infection/sepsis (typical RR 0.57, 95% CI 0.40 to 0.80). Moreover, KMC was found to increase some measures of infant growth, breastfeeding, and mother-infant attachment.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

The evidence from this updated review supports the use of KMC in LBW infants as an alternative to conventional neonatal care mainly in resource-limited settings. Further information is required concerning effectiveness and safety of early onset continuous KMC in unstabilized LBW infants, long term neurodevelopmental outcomes, and costs of care.

The newborn intensive care unit environment of care: how we got here, where we're headed, and why

The newborn intensive care unit (NICU) is a life-defining place for many infants, families, and caregivers. The place in which such events occur is often remembered for its sights, sounds, and smells, but the physical environment of the NICU is far more than a memory tag; it can directly influence the quality of the experience for all of its inhabitants. A growing body of evidence demonstrates the profound impact of the physical environment on growth and development of the neonatal brain. The value of skin-to-skin care is now established. Psychology, sociology, and occupational health provide additional insight into the effect of the NICU setting on families and caregivers. Together, these lines of evidence point to the need for individualized environments. Single-family rooms are a growing trend in the NICU because they allow for individualized environments. Careful planning can avoid pitfalls and bring benefit to babies, families, and caregivers alike.

Randomized crossover trial of kangaroo care to reduce biobehavioral pain responses in preterm infants: a pilot study

Kangaroo care (KC), skin-to-skin contact between mother and infant, is a promising method for blunting pain responses. This crossover pilot tested KC effects on biobehavioral responses to heel stick in preterm infants (30-32 weeks' gestational age, 2-9 days old) measured by Premature Infant Pain Profile (PIPP) and salivary and serum cortisol. Mother-infant dyads were randomly assigned to KC heel stick (KCH) first or incubator heel stick (IH) first. Study 1 (80-min study, N = 18) tested the effect of 80 min of KC before and throughout the heel stick procedure versus incubator care. Study 2 (30-min study, N = 10) tested 30 min of KC before and throughout the heel stick versus incubator care. KCH and IH began during a premeasurement phase and continued through four data collection phases: baseline, heel warming, heel stick, and recovery. PIPP responses were measured every 30 s during data collection; salivary cortisol was measured at the end of baseline and recovery; and serum cortisol was measured during heel stick. Study 1 showed no differences between KCH and IH. Study 2 showed lower PIPP scores at four time points during recovery (p < .05 to p < .001), lower salivary cortisol at the end of recovery (p < .05), and lower serum cortisol during heel stick for the KCH condition (p < .05) as well as clinically lower PIPP scores in the KCH condition during heel stick. Thirty minutes of KC before and throughout the heel stick reduced biobehavioral responses to pain in preterm infants.

Extremely preterm infants tolerate skin-to-skin contact during the first weeks of life

AIM

To determine if clinically stable extremely preterm infants can maintain their temperature during skin-to-skin contact and to screen for other negative effects.

METHODS

Continuous measurement of 22 stable infants' physical parameters 2 h before, during, and 2 h after skin-to-skin-contact. Mean gestational age at birth was 25 weeks and 4 days, mean post-natal age was 8 days, postmenstrual age was 26 weeks and 6 days, and mean actual weight 702 g. Mean duration of skin-to-skin-contact was 98 min. 16 infants were skin-to-skin with the mother, five with the father and one with an older sister.

RESULTS

There were no significant differences in mean skin temperature, heart rate, respiration rate, or oxygen saturation before, during, and after skin-to-skin contact. While staying within normal range, the mean skin temperature increased 0.1 degrees C during skin-to-skin contact with the mother and decreased 0.3 degrees C during skin-to-skin contact with the father (p = 0.011) (without post-hoc correction).

CONCLUSION

Clinically stable, extremely preterm infants can keep adequate skin temperature and adequate physical stability during skin-to-skin contact with their parents.

Meta-analysis of physiological effects of skin-to-skin contact for newborns and mothers

BACKGROUND

Skin-to-skin care has been adopted all over the world, although physiological changes during or after it have not been evaluated very well. The purpose of the present study was therefore to investigate whether skin-to-skin contact for newborn babies and their mothers affects body temperature, heart rate and oxygen saturation of the babies.

METHODS

Studies investigating body temperature, heart rate and oxygen saturation of babies during and/or after skin-to-skin contact were systematically searched and reviewed. Meta-analyses to examine the effects and meta-regression analyses to investigate correlations between the effects and birthweight, duration of the care, environmental temperature, and resources of the setting, were conducted.

RESULTS

A total of 23 studies were included. Meta-analyses showed evidence of an increase in body temperature (weighted mean difference [WMD] 0.22 degrees C, P < 0.001) and a decrease in saturation of babies (WMD -0.60%; P= 0.01) during skin-to-skin care, compared with those before skin-to-skin care. Increase in body temperature was more evident in middle-low-income settings (WMD, 0.61 degrees C, P < 0.001) than high-income settings (WMD 0.20 degrees C, P < 0.001). Both the positive effect on body temperature and the negative effect on saturation were more marked in cold environments than where the environmental temperature was higher (WMD 0.18 degrees C, P < 0.001; WMD -0.82%, P= 0.02).

CONCLUSION

Skin-to-skin care is effective in increasing the body temperature of babies, especially where resources are limited and the environment is cold. Decreased oxygen saturation of the babies, however, warrants further prospective studies to confirm the findings.

Interventions to prevent hypothermia at birth in preterm and/or low birthweight infants

BACKGROUND

Keeping vulnerable preterm infants warm is problematic even when recommended routine thermal care guidelines are followed in the delivery suite.

OBJECTIVES

To assess efficacy and safety of interventions designed for prevention of hypothermia in preterm and/or low birthweight infants applied within 10 minutes after birth in the delivery suite compared with routine thermal care.

SEARCH STRATEGY

We used the standard search strategy of the Cochrane Neonatal Review Group (CNRG). The review was updated in October 2009.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Trials using randomised or quasi-randomised allocations to test a specific intervention designed to prevent hypothermia, (apart from 'routine' thermal care) applied within 10 minutes after birth in the delivery suite to infants of < 37 weeks' gestational age or birthweight </= 2500 g.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

We used the methods of the CNRG for data collection and analysis.

MAIN RESULTS

1) Barriers to heat loss [5 studies; plastic wrap or bag (3), plastic cap (1), stockinet cap (1)]:Plastic wraps or bags were effective in reducing heat losses in infants < 28 weeks' gestation (4 studies, n = 223; WMD 0.68 degrees C; 95% CI 0.45, 0.91), but not in infants between 28 to 31 week's gestation. Plastic caps were effective in reducing heat losses in infants < 29 weeks' gestation (1 study, n = 64; MD 0.80 degrees C; 95% CI 0.41, 1.19). There was insufficient evidence to suggest that either plastic wraps or plastic caps reduce the risk of death within hospital stay. There was no evidence of significant differences in other clinical outcomes for either the plastic wrap/bag or the plastic cap comparisons. Stockinet caps were not effective in reducing heat losses.2) External heat sources [2 studies; skin-to-skin (1), transwarmer mattress (1)]:Skin-to-skin care (SSC) was shown to be effective in reducing the risk of hypothermia when compared to conventional incubator care for infants (1 study, n = 31; RR 0.09; 95% CI 0.01, 0.64). The transwarmer mattress reduced the incidence of hypothermia on admission to NICU in VLBW infants (1 study, n = 24; RR 0.30; 95% CI 0.11, 0.83).

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Plastic wraps or bags, plastic caps, SSC and transwarmer mattresses all keep preterm infants warmer leading to higher temperatures on admission to neonatal units and less hypothermia. However, the small numbers of infants and studies and the absence of long-term follow-up mean that firm recommendations for clinical practice cannot be given.

Kangaroo Care modifies preterm infant heart rate variability in response to heel stick pain: pilot study

BACKGROUND

Heel stick is the most common painful procedure for preterm infants in neonatal intensive care units. Resultant pain causes adverse physiological effects in major organ systems. Kangaroo Care (KC), involving mother-infant skin-to-skin contact is a promising analgesic for infant pain; however, the effect of KC on the autonomic nervous system's response to pain is unknown.

AIM

To determine if KC results in improved balance in autonomic responses to heel stick pain than the standard method where infants remain in an incubator care (IC) for the heel stick.

STUDY DESIGN

A randomized cross-over trial.

SUBJECTS

Fourteen preterm infants, 30-32 weeks gestational age and less than 9 days postnatal age.

OUTCOME MEASURES

Infant behavioral state, heart rate, heart rate variability (HRV) indices including low frequency (LF) and high frequency (HF) power, and the LF/HF ratio measured over Baseline, Heel Warming, Heel Stick, and Recovery periods in KC and IC conditions.

RESULTS

HRV differences between KC and IC were that LF was higher in KC at Baseline (p<.01) and at Heel Stick (p<.001), and HF was higher in KC at Baseline than in the IC condition (p<.05). The LF/HF ratio had less fluctuation across the periods in KC than in IC condition and was significantly lower during Recovery in KC than in IC (p<.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Infants experienced better balance in response in KC than IC condition as shown by more autonomic stability during heel stick. KC may be helpful in mediating physiologic response to painful procedures in preterm infants.

Neonatal hypothermia in low resource settings: a review

BACKGROUND

Hypothermia is increasingly recognized as a major cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality in resource poor settings. High prevalence of hypothermia has been reported widely from warmer high mortality regions of Africa and South Asia. The World Health Organization recognizes newborn thermal care as a critical and essential component of essential newborn care; however, hypothermia continues to remain under-documented, under-recognized and under-managed.

OBJECTIVE

This review aims to provide a thorough patho-physio-epidemiological discussion of neonatal hypothermia applied to local risk factors within the developing country context with particular emphasis on prevention, recognition and management.

METHOD

All available published literature on neonatal hypothermia relevant to resource poor settings were reviewed. Studies from the developing country settings were primarily reviewed for epidemiology, domiciliary risk factors as well as potential interventions for thermal care.

RESULT AND DISCUSSION

Functional integrity and efficiency of biological systems is critically dependent on an optimal and very narrow range of core body temperature. Risk factors for neonatal hypothermia differ markedly within low resource settings. A combination of physiological, behavioral and environmental factors universally put all newborns, irrespective of birth weight, at risk of hypothermia. The knowledge deficit along the continuum from health providers to primary care givers has sustained the silent epidemic of hypothermia. The challenges of recognition, understanding of local risk factors and communication have meant a lack of informed thermal care for newborns. Simple, feasible interventions exist, but need to be applied, based on local risk factors that disrupt the warm chain. Further research is needed to document local risk factors, develop better techniques for recognition, evaluation of thermal care within essential newborn care and communication strategies for program effectiveness.

Early interventions involving parents to improve neurodevelopmental outcomes of premature infants: a meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

To determine in a systematic review, whether interventions for infant development that involve parents, improve neurodevelopment at 12 months corrected age or older.

STUDY DESIGN

Randomized trials were identified where an infant intervention was aimed to improve development and involved parents of preterms; and long-term neurodevelopment using standardized tests at 12 months (or longer) was reported.

RESULT

Identified studies (n=25) used a variety of interventions including parent education, infant stimulation, home visits or individualized developmental care. Meta-analysis at 12 months (N=2198 infants) found significantly higher mental (N=2198) and physical (N=1319) performance scores favoring the intervention group. At 24 months, the mental (N=1490) performance scores were improved, but physical (N=1025) performance scores were not statistically significant. The improvement in neurodevelopmental outcome was not sustained at 36 months (N=961) and 5 years (N=1017).

CONCLUSION

Positive clinically meaningful effects (>5 points) are seen to an age of 36 months, but are no longer present at 5 years.