Music therapy research in the NICU: an updated meta-analysis.
OBJECTIVE
To provide an overview of developmental and medical benefits of music therapy for preterm infants.


METHODS
Meta-analysis.


METHODS
Empirical music studies with preterm infants in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).


RESULTS
Evidence-based NICU music therapy (NICU -MT ) was highly beneficial with an overall large significant effect size (Cohen's d = 0.82). Effects because of music were consistently in a positive direction.


RESULTS
Results of the current analysis replicated findings of a prior meta-analysis and included extended use of music.(1) Benefits were greatest for live music therapy (MT ) and for use early in the infant's NICU stay (birth weight <1,000 g, birth postmenstrual age <28 weeks). Results justify strong consideration for the inclusion of the following evidence-based NICU -MT protocols in best practice standards for NICU treatment of preterm infants: music listening for pacification, music reinforcement of sucking, and music pacification as the basis for multilayered, multimodal stimulation.
College of Music, The Florida State University, Tallahassee, 32306-1180, USA. jstandley@fsu.edu
Jayne
J
Standley
D000161:Acoustic Stimulation / Q000379:methods; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D018730:Infant Behavior / Q000523:psychology*; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D007234:Infant, Premature; D007363:Intensive Care Units, Neonatal; D008297:Male; D009146:Music / Q000523:psychology*; D009147:Music Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D017283:Neonatal Nursing / Q000379:methods; D015404:Nursing Methodology Research; D009769:Object Attachment; D013637:Tape Recording; D014481:United States