Effects of Confortable Environment, Kangaroo Care and Music Therapy in Newborns in Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (PRE-CARE)

Policlinico Universitario, Catania

Status: Enrolling

Conditions: Premature Infant Disease; Newborn Morbidity

Treatments: Other: in the field of rehabilitation and neonatal care: the combination of Kangaroo care method and music therapy

Study type: Interventional

Funder types: Other

Identifiers

NCT06256406

122/2022/PO

Details and patient eligibility

About

Creating a comfortable environment, implementing kangaroo care, and incorporating music therapy are crucial interventions for newborns hospitalized in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). These strategies not only contribute to the physical well-being of the infants but also play a significant role in promoting their emotional and developmental health.

Full description

The well-being of newborns in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) is paramount, and establishing a comfortable environment is a fundamental aspect of their care. This involves controlling factors such as temperature, lighting, and noise to mimic the conditions of the womb, creating a soothing and supportive atmosphere for their fragile development. A calm environment is essential for premature infants, as it can contribute to improved weight gain, better sleep patterns, and overall physiological stability.

Kangaroo care, a practice involving skin-to-skin contact between the infant and a caregiver, has proven to be a transformative intervention in NICU settings. This method not only fosters the bond between the baby and their parent but also offers numerous physiological benefits. Kangaroo care has been associated with stabilized heart and respiratory rates, enhanced weight gain, and improved neurodevelopmental outcomes. The close physical contact provides a sense of security and comfort, mimicking the warmth and safety of the mother's womb.

Incorporating music therapy into the care routine of NICU infants has demonstrated positive effects on their well-being. Music has the power to reduce stress, stabilize vital signs, and promote better sleep patterns. Live or recorded lullabies, specifically designed for preterm infants, have been shown to have a calming influence and aid in the regulation of physiological functions. Additionally, music therapy can serve as a valuable tool for parents, offering a means of bonding with their hospitalized newborns and alleviating the stress associated with the NICU experience.

In conclusion, the utility of a comfortable environment, kangaroo care, and music therapy for newborns in the NICU extends beyond basic medical care. These interventions recognize the holistic needs of premature or ill infants, addressing both their physical and emotional requirements. By prioritizing a nurturing and supportive environment, healthcare providers aim to optimize the developmental trajectory of these vulnerable newborns, fostering better outcomes for their long-term health and well-being.

Enrollment: 50 estimated patients

Sex: All

Ages: Under 3 years old

Volunteers: Accepts Healthy Volunteers

Inclusion criteria

• newborn hospitalized in NICU

Exclusion criteria

• not hospitalized in NICU,
• intubated infants,
• instable clinical condition

Trial design

Primary purpose: Supportive Care

Allocation: Non-Randomized

Interventional model: Parallel Assignment

Masking: None (Open label)

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50 participants in 2 patient groups

kangaroo care

Active Comparator group

Description:

Kangaroo care Arm subjected to Kangaroo care, a practice involving skin-to-skin contact between the infant and a caregiver.

Treatment:

Other: in the field of rehabilitation and neonatal care: the combination of Kangaroo care method and music therapy

Music therapy

Active Comparator group

Description:

Music therapy Arm subjected to music therapy, a practise improving perception of newborns

Treatment:

Other: in the field of rehabilitation and neonatal care: the combination of Kangaroo care method and music therapy