Related Experiment Video
Updated: Dec 11, 2025
Preterm EEG: A Multimodal Neurophysiological Protocol
Published on: February 18, 2012
A Maternal-Administered Multimodal Neonatal Bundle in Hospitalized Very Preterm Infants: A Pilot Study
Lisa Letzkus1, Corrie Alonzo, Elizabeth Connaughton
1Divisions of Developmental Pediatrics (Dr Letzkus) and Neonatology (Drs Alonzo and Zanelli), Department of Pediatrics, and Children's Hospital Physical and Occupational Therapy (Drs Connaughton and Kelly), University of Virginia, Charlottesville.
Background:
Premature infants are at an increased risk for developing cerebral palsy (CP). Evidence-based strategies designed to promote healthy brain development and facilitate adaptation after brain injury in infants still admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) represent a novel approach that may lead to improved long-term outcomes.
Purpose:
To investigate the feasibility of a maternal-administered early intervention bundle in very preterm infants prior to NICU discharge.
Methods:
A pilot trial evaluating a maternal-administered NICU-based bundle of interventions in preterm infants (≤32 weeks' gestational age and/or ≤1500 g birth weight). The impact of the bundle on short-term developmental outcomes of infants, as well as maternal stress, anxiety, and depression, is evaluated.
Results:
The intervention bundle was implemented in 11 mother-infant dyads (including 1 set of twins) for a median of 8 weeks and was overall well received. Vocal soothing, scent exchange, and comforting touch were feasible, performed at or above the predetermined goal of 71% of the time (5/7 days), while kangaroo care and infant massage were not. Maternal stress, anxiety, and depression were decreased during the study time.
Implications To Practice:
A neonatal multimodal intervention bundle provided by mothers is feasible.
Implications To Research:
Additional randomized controlled studies are needed to determine whether this type of bundled interventions can (1) improve the neurodevelopmental outcomes of participating infants and (2) improve long-term parental outcomes, including decreased burden of anxiety and depression, as well as improved attachment and optimal patterns of social interaction.
