Safety of skin-to-skin care

Abstract

Skin-to-skin contact between the caretaker and the infant is a component of the kangaroo care strategy to improve outcomes for preterm infants, particularly in resource poor environments. In the setting of the neonatal intensive care unit, skin-to-skin care provides opportunities for maternal and paternal bonding with the high-risk infant. However, concerns about temperature control and risks of interruptions of essential care interventions limit the use of skin-to-skin care. In this issue of The Journal, Karlsson et al report that skin-to-skin care can be offered by 5 days of age for infants with a mean gestational age of 24 weeks at birth; and a mean weight of 600 grams. These very preterm infants were receiving either mechanical ventilation or continuous positive airway pressure. Temperature control was not a problem for skin-to-skin care intervals that averaged 95 minutes with careful positioning and supplemental blankets. Similarly, the ventilatory support could be safely maintained. Such care requires exceptional nursing support and parental participation, but it can be done.Article page 422▶ Skin-to-skin contact between the caretaker and the infant is a component of the kangaroo care strategy to improve outcomes for preterm infants, particularly in resource poor environments. In the setting of the neonatal intensive care unit, skin-to-skin care provides opportunities for maternal and paternal bonding with the high-risk infant. However, concerns about temperature control and risks of interruptions of essential care interventions limit the use of skin-to-skin care. In this issue of The Journal, Karlsson et al report that skin-to-skin care can be offered by 5 days of age for infants with a mean gestational age of 24 weeks at birth; and a mean weight of 600 grams. These very preterm infants were receiving either mechanical ventilation or continuous positive airway pressure. Temperature control was not a problem for skin-to-skin care intervals that averaged 95 minutes with careful positioning and supplemental blankets. Similarly, the ventilatory support could be safely maintained. Such care requires exceptional nursing support and parental participation, but it can be done. Article page 422▶ Early Skin-to-Skin Care in Extremely Preterm Infants: Thermal Balance and Care EnvironmentThe Journal of PediatricsVol. 161Issue 3PreviewTo evaluate infant thermal balance and the physical environment in extremely preterm infants during skin-to-skin care (SSC). Full-Text PDF