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Published on: March 19, 2019
Preterm Infant Incubator Humidity Levels: A Systematic Review.
1Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, UPMC Magee Hamot Womens Hospital, Erie, Pennsylvania (Dr Glass); and School of Nursing, College of Health Services, Walden University, Minneapolis, Minnesota (Dr Valdez).
Maintaining optimal incubator humidity is crucial for preterm infants. Levels between 60%-70% in the first week effectively reduce transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and support skin barrier formation in infants born at 26 weeks or later.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal care
- Perinatal medicine
- Pediatric dermatology
Background:
- Inconsistent incubator humidity in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) is a recognized concern.
- Evidence synthesis is required to establish optimal incubator humidity levels and duration.
- The goal is to decrease transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and reduce infection risk in preterm infants.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review and synthesize evidence on preterm infant outcomes related to incubator humidity.
- To determine the impact of incubator humidity levels and duration on patient outcomes.
- Focus on premature infants born before 32 0/7 weeks gestational age in the NICU.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review based on Joanna Briggs Institute methodology.
- Application of Mefford's theory of health promotion for preterm infants.
- Evidence classification using Johns Hopkins evidence-based practice levels and quality assessment.
Main Results:
- Twelve studies met the inclusion criteria for the review.
- Incubator humidity is beneficial but carries risks, including increased microbial growth at high levels.
- Lowering incubator humidity after the first week effectively prevents TEWL and improves skin barrier formation.
Conclusions:
- An incubator humidity of 60%-70% during the first week is effective for preventing TEWL in infants born at 26 weeks or later.
- Further research is needed to determine optimal incubator humidity for infants born before 26 weeks.
- Video abstract available for further details.
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