Objective:To review the literature addressing the care of neonatal skin.Data Sources:Computerized searches in MEDLINE and CINAHL, as well as references cited in articles reviewed. Key concepts in the searches included neonatal skin differences; neonatal skin and care practices for skin integrity; neonatal skin and toxicity; permeability; and contact irritant sensitization.Study Selection:Articles and comprehensive works relevant to key concepts and published after 1963, with an emphasis on new findings from 1993 to 1999. One hundred two citations were identified as useful to this review.Data Extraction:Data were extracted and organized under the following headings: anatomy and physiology of the skin; physiologic and anatomic differences in neonatal skin; nutritional deficiencies; skin care practices; and care of skin breakdown.Data Synthesis:Newborns’ skin is at risk for disruption of normal barrier function because of trauma. In light of available evidence about differences in neonatal skin development, clinical practice guidelines are suggested for baths, lubrication, antimicrobial skin disinfection, and adhesive removal. In addition, basic care practices are suggested for maintaining skin integrity, reducing exposure to potentially toxic substances, and promoting skin health beyond the neonatal period. Preventive care recommendations are made for reducing trauma, protecting the skin’s immature barrier function, and promoting skin integrity.Conclusions:This review generated evidence with which to create a new and comprehensive practice guideline for clinicians. Evaluation of the guideline is under way at 58 U.S. sites.
These findings suggest that mindfulness practices need to be reinforced. Without continuous reinforcement, it may become a self-care practice moved to the bottom of the list of things to be done among the activities of a busy day.
The mothers expressed confidence in their ability as a caregiver but expressed concern about being tired, the need for readmission to the hospital, and missing a change in the infant's conditions.
The purpose of this study was to determine the occurrence of stress and the areas of stress experienced by mothers as they prepare for their infants' transition from the neonatal intensive care unit to the home setting. A descriptive survey study was used to study mothers of infants anticipating discharge to home within 5 days. The author used a descriptive survey research design using the Parental Stressor Scale: Infant Hospitalization tool and a global measure of stress. The highest area of stress was parental role alterations. All mothers in the study reported experiencing stress related to their infants' anticipated discharge, with extremely high levels of stress reported by 34% of participants. These findings support the position that nurses are to provide guidance to mothers that strengthens their parenting role and relationship with their infants.
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