[Effects of light intensity on the physiological parameters of the premature infant]

This study attempts to find out the effects of light intensity on premature infants' physiological parameters. The research method adopted utilized a quasiexperimental repeated measures design. Thirty-five premature infants born in no more than thirty seven gestation weeks and with birth weight less than 2500g were targeted. The first step was to examine the original arrangement of the blankets over the incubators, the second step was to investigate the effect of placing blankets on the top of the incubator and draped down the top 1/3 of the sides. The third step was conducted without blankets. Factors including light intensity and volume in the incubator and heart rate, respiration rate, and blood oxygen saturation of the premature infants were recorded in all three steps. During the experimental period, no nursing treatment or interventions were allowed. Instruments used in the study included a photometer, a phonometer, a V8 camera, a heart rate monitor, a respiration monitor, and a blood oxygen saturation monitor. The study was conducted in the NICUs in three district hospitals in northern Taiwan. To analyze the data, descriptive statistics and the General Estimation Equation (GEE) were applied. The study shows: (1) Light intensity had a significant statistical relationship with the premature infants' physiological parameters (p = .00). (2) The heart rate and respiration rate increased and the blood oxygen saturation decreased as the intensity of light went up. (3) Placing a blanket over the top and sides of the incubator effectively reduces light levels inside (p = .00). The results of this study suggest a treatment principle for premature infants and provide a basis further research.