Effects of touch on O[2] saturation in newborns with respiratory distress syndrome

ABSTRACT

Approximately, 7% of all newborns weigh less than 1500 gr. 10% - 15% of newborns less than 2500 gr. may develop respiratory distress syndrome. Because of their anatomic, chemical and physiologic immaturity and instability, premature infants are unable to fully modulate extrauterine stressors, a critical challenge for care providers. A wide variety of sensory stimulations has been found to be beneficial for premature infants. This quasi-experimental research was conducted to determine the effects of touch on oxygen saturation of arterial blood in newborns with respiratory distress syndrome. Subjects in this clinical trial included 37 affected infants in neonatal intensive care unit of Mofid Pediatric Hospital. An information form and a pulse oxymeter were used for data collection. Validity of the form was measured by content validity. The pulse oxymeter was selected from famous brands to ensure its validity. It was then calibrated for reliability. Data was collected in 3 consecutive days. At first, oxygen saturation was checked and, after 5 minute, the subjects were touched for 5 minutes. O[2] saturation was then checked after 5 and 15 minutes again. Findings showed that oxygen saturations 5 and 15 minutes after touch were more than those of before touch [p<0.01]. However, there was no significant difference between saturations 5 and 15 minutes after touch. There was also no significant difference between saturations over 3 days. Findings suggest that touch can increase O[2] saturation. For nurses working at NICUs, the importance of touch should be emphasized in the care of premature infants. Further research in this regard is warranted