Effects of Swaddle Bathing on Physiological Regulation and Stress-Reducing Behaviors in Preterm Infants in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit: A Randomized Controlled Trial

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to compare swaddle bathing and conventional tub bathing in preterm infants cared for in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). The study focuses on whether swaddle bathing, which involves wrapping the infant in a light cloth during the bath, provides similar physiological safety and greater comfort compared to traditional bathing. Researchers will evaluate if this method helps maintain body temperature and heart rate while reducing stress and crying in these vulnerable babies. Participants will be randomly assigned to either the experimental group receiving swaddle bathing or the control group receiving conventional tub bathing. Baths are scheduled in a temperature-controlled room with water at 39-400C and last exactly 5 minutes. In the swaddle bathing group, infants remain wrapped and only partially unwrapped for washing, while the control group infants are undressed and bathed without a wrap following hospital protocols. During and after bathing, infants' body temperature, heart rate, and oxygen saturation will be closely monitored using calibrated devices. Behavioral responses such as crying and stress-related movements will be video-recorded and scored using standardized scales. Data will be gathered at baseline, immediately after the bath, and 10 minutes later to assess physiological stability and comfort. The trial will provide important preliminary information to guide best bathing practices for preterm infants.

Physiological Safety and Behavioral Comfort of Swaddle Bathing in Preterm Infants