Redesigning the Common NICU Incubator: An Approach Through the Emulation of Factors Resembling the Mother’s Womb

Abstract

Incubators are essential medical devices in Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICU) with the purpose of regulating and maintaining the required humidity and temperature for neonates and preterm infants (PI): basic survival functions. Nonetheless, their optimal development must consider other fundamental factors such as positioning of the body, orientation in space, and other stimuli. The aim of this study was to compare the emotional visual impact variation caused by the common NICU incubator and a redesign proposal that takes into account all the factors previously mentioned. The emotional impact caused by these two devices was measured through a survey using PrEmo Tool©. The results showed that through the redesigned proposal, a higher positive response was achieved while decreasing its negative emotional impact. The proposal’s aim for improvement was achieved through the emulation of the mother’s womb both in form and function.