Effect of kangaroo mother care on breastfeeding andbehavior of full-term newborn

Abstract

Objective To explore the effect of kangaroo mother care (KMC) on breastfeeding, behavior, body temperature and weight of full-term newborn. Methods A total of 80 full-term newborns from March to December of 2017 were selected by the convenience sampling method, and were randomly divided into control group and intervention group, with 40 cases each group. Routine obstetric nursing was provided for the newborns in the control group. In addition, one hour of KMC was provided for the newborns in the intervention group. The LATCH scores, neonatal behaviors, body temperature and weight were observed on daily basis. Meanwhile, an interview was conducted to investigate mothers′ attitudes towards KMC. Results The LATCH scores of the intervention group for the second and third days were respectively (6.52±0.81) and (7.75±1.08), which were higher than that in control group (5.95±0.95), (7.02±1.07). The differences were statistically significant (t=2.887, 3.010, P<0.05). The behavioral status of neonates in the intervention group for 3 days was (3.65±1.12), (3.42±0.87), (3.35±1.07), all of which were lower than that in control group (4.57±0.98), (4.50±1.24), (4.65±1.27), and the differences were statistically significant (t=-4.593, -8.285, -7.029, P<0.01). The interviews showed that 100.0% (40/40) of mothers were satisfied with KMC and were very happy in the process.95.0% (38/40) of mothers believe that KMC can increase mother-child relationships.82.5% (33/40) of mothers believe that KMC can keep children quiet.72.5% (29/40) of mothers feel that KMC can relieve pain in the abdomen or perineum. Conclusions In the hospital, 1h of KMC can make breastfeeding more effective and the newborn condition is more stable, which is worthy of clinical application. Key words: Newborn; Kangaroo mother care; Breastfeeding; Infant Behavior