The effect of the use of positioning materials and hand-face maneuvers on physiologic parameters and stress symptoms in preterm newborns.

Abstract

Background: Correct locating in the short and long term is very important for infants.The purpose of the present study is performed to evaluate the effect of positioning with materials and hand-face maneuvers on physiological parameters and stress symptoms in preterm newborns.

Methods: This study was a randomized controlled trial. The newborns in the control group [n = 30] were placed with a rolled blanket as in the routine of the ward. The experiment¹ group [n = 30] was positioned using a positioner. The same newborns in the experiment¹ group were positioned on the 2nd day of the study using a positioner and with hand-face maneuvers [experiment²]. This positioner has a smooth and malleable design that retains its shape when moulded by hand. It is free from di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) and latex and has an erasable structure. The material does not retain moisture, flatten or overheat. All infants were given the lateral and prone positions equally.

Results: The SpO₂ values of the infants in the experiment¹ and experiment² groups were significantly higher than those in the control group. After 1 h, heart rates were found significantly lower in the experiment² group than in the control group. In addition, it was determined that the Neonatal Stress Scale score before the first position was significantly higher in the experiment¹ and experiment² groups compared in the control group, and there was no difference between the groups after the procedure.

Conclusion: This study emphasizes the importance of individualized care in the NICU, particularly through hand-face maneuvers and proper positioning to reduce stress in preterm infants. These interventions can enhance physiological stability and neurodevelopmental outcomes. The findings suggest that integrating these practices into routine care for all neonatal populations could improve both immediate and long-term outcomes.

Trial registration: This study was prospectively registered at ClinicalTrials.gov, registration NCT06136130, etrospectively registered registration date November 16, 2023, registration URL https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT06136130 .