Effect of Sensory Stimulation Interventions on Physiological Stability and Neurobehavioral Outcomes of Premature Neonates

Abstract

Objective: To assess the effect of sensory stimulation interventions on physiological stability and neurobehavioral outcomes of premature neonates. Design: A quasi experimental design. Setting: The study was conducted at Neonatal Intensive Care Units at Ain Shams Maternity & Gynecological Hospital, and Abo El Reesh El Monira Children's Hospital. Subjects: The study subjects included a purposive sample of 88 premature neonates divided into study and control groups and they were matched with their gestational age and birth weight. Tools: (1) The Neonate's Medical Record, (2) Physiologic Parameters Recording Sheet and (3) Brazelton Neonatal Behavioral Assessment Scale. Methods: Premature neonates divided into two equal groups; (a) study group who receiving sensory stimulation interventions (b) control group who receiving routine hospital care only. The premature neonates were assessed their physiological stability and their neurobehavioral outcomes at initial contact, after 5 days of interventions and on discharge. Results: showed that the physiological stability and neurobehavioral outcomes of the study group were improved after 5 days of sensory stimulation interventions and on discharge than those in the control group with statistically significant differences were found between the study and the control groups. Conclusion: It was concluded from the current study findings that premature neonates who receive sensory stimulation interventions had better physiological stability and better neurobehavioral outcomes than those who didn’t receive them and had only routine hospital care. Recommendations: Providing sensory stimulation interventions for premature neonates on routine hospital care.