Evidence-based recommendation for delaying first bath time of newborn infants

Abstract

Objective To select and obtain the best evidence for first bathing time of newborn infants after birth so as to provide reference for clinical practice to promote maternal skin contact, newborn′s skin humidity, breastfeeding, and positive impact on the infant′s temperature regulation as well as glucose stability. Methods Using the method of evidence-based nursing, clinical question of optimal time for the first bath of newborn after birth.Relevant research was retrieved by computer search. Johns Hopkins evidence appraisal and recommendation tools were used to evaluate quality of studies and level of evidence. Results Combined with judgement of clinical professionals,totally 7 evidences selected, including the advantages of delaying the first bath time and retaining fetal fat, improving skin humidity, increasing skin-to-skin contact for mothers and their healthy newborn infants, improving early sucking rate, maintaining neonatal body temperature and blood sugar balance. Conclusions This study summarized the best evidence for delaying first bath time of newborns and helping clinical nurses and nursing managers decision-making.Through adapting the best evidence to establish neonatal skin barrier protection, improve breast-feeding rate, and further maintain neonatal body temperature and blood glucose balance. Key words: Newborn baths; Skin; Breastfeeding; Body temperature; Evidence-based practice