Neuroprotective Core Measure 2: Partnering with Families - Effects of a Weighted Maternally-Scented Parental Simulation Device on Premature Infants in Neonatal Intensive Care

We sought to explore the effects of neuroprotective care with use of weighted maternally-scented parental simulation device on 24–38 week gestation infants in a level III NICU. A sample of 45 infants was randomized into 1 of 4 groups. Infants in 2 of the groups were positioned with a weighted parental simulation device with and without maternal scent. Infants in a third group were placed in a soft nesting device with maternal scent, but without the weighted parental simulation device. Infants in the control group were given routine care without maternal scent or parental simulation device. Infants were observed and physiologic and behavioral data were recorded for a continuous 12-hour period of time. Infants positioned with a weighted maternally-scented parental simulation device demonstrated significantly more self-regulatory behaviors and were less likely to experience episodes of apnea (HR = 9.828, p < 0.02) and bradycardia (HR = 12.294, p < 0.006). Neuroprotective care using a weighted maternally-scented parental simulation device resulted in increased physiologic stability of premature and early term infants through the promotion of self-regulation seen by reduction of stressful behaviors, and decreased apnea, and bradycardia.