Related Experiment Videos
Neonatal hand casting method.
August L Jung1, Penny Milne, Jerold Wilcox
1Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, University of Utah School of Medicine, 30 N. 1900 E., Salt Lake City, UT 84132-2202, USA.
Summary
Creating hand or foot molds of infants in the neonatal intensive care unit provides cherished keepsakes for parents. These neonatal castings also offer valuable teaching and fundraising opportunities.
Area of Science:
- Medical Technology
- Pediatrics
- Neonatology
Background:
- Neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) provide critical care for newborns.
- Parents often seek meaningful ways to commemorate their infant's NICU stay.
- Tangible mementos can support emotional well-being during challenging times.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the methodology for creating hand and foot molds of infants within a NICU setting.
- To explore the perceived value of these molds for parents and the institution.
Main Methods:
- Detailing the process of taking infant hand or foot impressions in the NICU.
- Discussing materials and techniques suitable for neonatal skin.
- Outlining procedures for mold creation and preservation.
Main Results:
- Parents reported high appreciation for the keepsake molds of their infants.
- The molds were found to be valuable for educational purposes within the NICU.
- Castings demonstrated potential as a fundraising tool for NICU programs.
Conclusions:
- Hand and foot molding is a feasible and beneficial practice in the NICU.
- These neonatal keepsakes enhance parental connection and offer institutional advantages.
- The practice supports emotional needs while providing practical benefits for NICU units.