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Altering the NICU and measuring infants' responses.
M Slevin1, N Farrington, G Duffy
1Department of Neonatology, National Maternity Hospital, Dublin, Ireland.
Acta Paediatrica (Oslo, Norway : 1992)
|June 14, 2000
Summary
Implementing a designated Quiet period in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) significantly reduced light, noise, and staff activity. This intervention lowered preterm infants' blood pressure and decreased their movement, demonstrating feasibility and positive physiological impacts.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal Intensive Care
- Environmental Health
- Pediatric Physiology
Background:
- Neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) are often characterized by high levels of light, noise, and frequent staff interventions.
- These environmental factors can negatively impact the physiological stability and development of preterm infants.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the impact of a structured Quiet period on the NICU environment.
- To evaluate the influence of this Quiet period on the physiological and movement responses of preterm infants on assisted ventilation.
Main Methods:
- The study involved 10 preterm infants on assisted ventilation.
- The NICU environment was modified during the Quiet period, reducing light, noise, staff activity, and infant handling compared to a Normal period.
- Infants' heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen saturation, and movement were monitored.
Main Results:
- Significant reductions were observed in light (3.0 vs 254.5 Lux), noise (54.0 vs 58.0 dB), alarm events, staff conversation, staff activity, and infant handling during the Quiet period.
- Infants showed a median reduction of 2 mmHg in diastolic blood pressure and mean arterial pressure.
- Infant movements decreased significantly from 84.0 to 14.5 movements per hour.
Conclusions:
- Quiet periods are feasible within the neonatal intensive care setting.
- Modifying the NICU environment during Quiet periods significantly reduces sensory stimuli and physical interventions.
- These environmental changes are associated with improved physiological parameters (reduced blood pressure) and decreased motor activity in preterm infants.