title: Comparative effects of 2 positional supports on neurobehavioral and postural development in preterm neonates.
abstract: Preventing abnormal neurobehavioral and postural development requires careful nursing in preterm neonates. The purpose of this prospective study is to assess the effects of 2 different lying-position body supports for physiologic and functional positioning. Thirty preterm neonates were eligible, born between 28 and 35 weeks' gestation. A first sample experimented with a "Home-Cocoon" support made by nurses with rolled sheets, and a second sample provided a "Coconou" support, made with a specifically designed rolled pad. Assessments of body posture and of neurobehavior were administered pretest (on admission without support) and posttest (at discharge). In addition, nurses were asked to answer a questionnaire concerning motor behavior. All preterm neonates showed gains in postural development, but the "Coconou" group performed significantly better than the "Home-Cocoon" group, with fewer cranial deformities, with head positioning, arm relaxation, and better orthopedic leg position. The overall quality of behavior increased for the 2 groups, but visual pursuit was very significantly better for the "Coconou" group. Nurses' assessment was also better for the "Coconou" support. These results point to the benefits of positioning with a specifically designed support like "Coconou," promoting optimal prophylactic neurobehavioral and postural developmental care for preterm neonates.
authors.affiliation: Univ Paris-Sud, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, AP-HP Port Royal-Cohin Hospital, Paris, France. vaivre@nck.aphp.fr
authors.forename: Laurence
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Vaivre-Douret
authors.forename: Bernard
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Golse
mesh_terms: D001512:Bedding and Linens; D002658:Developmental Disabilities / Q000517:prevention & control*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D007234:Infant, Premature / Q000502:physiology; D007363:Intensive Care Units, Neonatal; D008297:Male; D041641:Musculoskeletal Development; D017283:Neonatal Nursing / Q000379:methods; D009420:Nervous System / Q000254:growth & development; D011187:Posture / Q000502:physiology; D011446:Prospective Studies