Introduction: Prematurity is the leading cause of neonatal mortality, however, the survival
of preterm infants is guaranteed. Prolonged exposure to numerous sensory stimuli
during early neonatal intensive care units contributes to the increased likelihood of organic
and/or psychological sequelae.
Objectives: Identify the best measures to minimize the impact that the sensorial environment
of neonatal intensive care units has on the development of premature newborns.
Methods: An integrative literature review was carried out in CINAHL, PubMed and
MEDLINE databases, according to the PICOD methodology (participants, intervention,
context, results and design).
Results: The analysis of the 6 articles included in the study showed a set of environmental
measures to be included in the care of premature newborns. The main recommendations
mentioned were organized into categories, namely, physical environment, sensory
environment, technology and parental training.
Conclusion: From this review emerges the need to define consistent and consensual
strategies for the optimization of the therapeutic environment in neonatal intensive
care units
