What is the Effectiveness of Sensory-based Interventions on Physiological Improvements for Infants in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU)?

Abstract

What is the effectiveness of sensory-based interventions on physiological improvements for infants in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU)? ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: The neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) is intended to support infants who were born prematurely, have critical health conditions, and experience cognitive and physiological delays. Worldwide there are 1 in 10 babies born prematurely each year with premature births indicating an increased risk of mortality and morbidity. Preterm infants in the NICU may have difficulty with feeding, low birth weight, and a high risk of developmental delays in addition to behavioral and learning problems. Sensory-based interventions have been indicated to have long-term and short-term implications on physiological and cognitive development among premature infants in the NICU. AIM: This critically appraised topic (CAT) is aimed at determining the effectiveness of sensory-based interventions on physiological improvement for infants in the NICU. METHODS: Literature search analysis led to the inclusion of Level 1A systematic and metanalysis studies regarding sensory-based intervention on physiological improvements for infants in the NICU. Studies were further analyzed to include literature that was published within the last five years which met the following outlined criteria: infants in the NICU receiving sensory-based interventions provided by a healthcare worker or parent to improve physiological outcomes. Five total studies were included which met the established standards. RESULTS: Five Level 1A research articles provided strong evidence supporting the effectiveness of sensory-based interventions in promoting physiological improvements in infants in the NICU. Kangaroo care was associated with significant clinical benefits, including enhanced vital signs, reduced stress, improved heart rate, better oxygen saturation, stabilized body temperature, and improved sleep organization. Swaddle baths were shown to reduce stress and support positive physiological outcomes, while sponge baths offered comparable benefits. Massage therapy using appropriate pressure contributed to weight gain, improved vital signs, and better sleep patterns. Interventions such as skin-to-skin contact, kangaroo care, and massage therapy have minimal to no adverse effects on physiological outcomes