Neurobehavioral signals in preterm infants in body weight check: a quasi-experimental study

Abstract

Objective: to describe and compare the frequency of neurobehavioral signs in preterm infants in traditional and humanized body weight check. Methods: a quantitative, quasi-experimental, cross-over study, carried out in a Neonatal Unit at a university hospital with a sample of 30 preterm newborns, randomly assigned and allocated in control group (traditional) and intervention group (humanized), with collection of general data, vital signs before and after procedures and footage. Results: there was a higher frequency of approach signs in humanized weight check compared to traditional check. Moreover, withdrawal signs were more frequent in traditional weight check compared to humanized check. Conclusion: in this regard, humanized body weight check provided greater benefits to preterm infants, making it necessary to foster discussions about humanization of care, so that this practice can be performed routinely in health units.