Multidisciplinary research of multimodal stimulation of premature infants: an integrated review of the literature.
OBJECTIVE
To review and integrate current multidisciplinary research literature about multiple sensory stimulation of premature infants.


METHODS
Computer search using CINAHL, MEDLINE, PSYLIT, SOCIAL SCIENCE INDEX and the topics "premature," "infant," "neonate," and "stimulation." Review of the results of the research and integration of findings for nursing.


RESULTS
Overall, infants responded positively to the interventions reviewed, including immediate and long-term effects, some up to 2 years.


CONCLUSIONS
Nursing research of multiple sensory stimulation of premature infants can be improved by the use of (a) a theoretical base for research, (b) better descriptions of the infant samples and the environmental context of the research, and (c) individualization of infant stimulation to permit conservation of epigenetic integrity of the infant.
Mueller
C R
CR
University of Texas, Austin, USA.
D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D007234:Infant, Premature / Q000502:physiology*; D008297:Male; D017283:Neonatal Nursing / Q000379:methods*; D010812:Physical Stimulation / Q000379:methods*; D012107:Research Design; D016896:Treatment Outcome