Improving physiological stability of very preterm babies: a preliminary randomised controlled trial

Abstract

Background Preterm babies born below 32 weeks gestational age are placed in incubators, and therefore deprived of exposure to maternal heartbeat sounds and breathing rhythms. This article explored the use of a unique soft-robotics device that replicates these via a mattress in the incubator. Aims This study aimed to obtain data on mothers' experiences in the NHS COSYBABY study in relation to using the device and learn what, if any, value this device has to parents in the neonatal unit. Methods The study used qualitative focus groups conducted by patient and public involvement leads and interviews with parents. Framework analysis was used to analyse the data. Results Resulting themes were willingness to try anything, supporting mothers, scepticism and searching for causality, limitations of the device and beyond the intervention. Conclusions The device provides socioemotional benefits to mothers of neonatal babies, although the health benefits to their baby are uncertain.