This study was planned to determine the effects of automatic baby swing application on the sleep-wake cycle, comfort behaviors and physiological parameters of babies in the neonatal intensive care unit.
Sleep patterns and behavioral comfort during the neonatal period are important indicators of neurological development and physiological stability. However, noise, light, and constant medical interventions and care practices in the NICU environment can negatively affect infants' sleep continuity and quality of rest. Therefore, non-pharmacological approaches that provide sensory support, such as rhythmic and gentle rocking, are thought to be effective in promoting infant relaxation and physiological balance. In this study, an automatic baby swing with adjustable speed and rhythm will be used as an intervention to support infant comfort and sleep organization. Clinically stable term and preterm newborns who meet the specified inclusion criteria will be included in the study. Participants will be randomly assigned to two groups: the intervention group (first automatic swing application, then measurement without the swing) and the control group (first measurement without the swing, then measurement in the automatic baby swing). The intervention will be implemented for 60 minutes after daytime care at 9:00 AM and 12:00 PM, and for 60 minutes after nighttime care at 9:00 PM and 12:00 AM. The infants' BIS values, comfort, and physiological parameters will be monitored throughout the entire process. The study will evaluate the infants' sleep-wake cycles, comfort behaviors (e.g., facial expressions, body movements, crying), and physiological parameters (e.g., heart rate, respiratory rate, oxygen saturation) as outcome variables. Data will be collected using standardized observation forms and monitoring devices. This study is expected to contribute to evidence-based nursing practice by demonstrating the effects of movement-based nonpharmacological interventions on newborn comfort, sleep quality, and physiological stability.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
SUPPORTIVE_CARE
Masking
DOUBLE
Enrollment
40
The Automatic Baby Swing aims to calm the baby by mimicking their natural movements. In this study, the low-speed "Rock-a-Bye" mode will be used because it mimics natural parental movements, making it easier for babies to fall asleep. During the implementation phase: After the baby's general condition is checked, the treatment will begin according to the group to which they were randomly assigned. If the baby is assigned to the Automatic Baby Swing, their sleep, comfort, and physiological parameters will be measured "First in the Automatic Baby Swing, Then in the Incubator" for 60 minutes during the day and night. If the baby is assigned to the other group, their sleep, comfort, and physiological parameters will be measured "First in the Incubator, Then in the Automatic Baby Swing" for 60 minutes during the day and night.
Primary Outcome 1: COMFORTneo Total Score
The COMFORTneo scale assesses seven behavioral and physiological parameters (muscle tone, alertness, facial tension, calmness/agitation, body movements, respiratory response, and crying). These parameters will be combined to produce a single total score (range 6-30). Only the total score will be reported.
Time frame: At 0, 30, and 60 minutes.
Secondary Outcome 1: Infant Body Temperature
Infant axillary body temperature measured in degrees Celsius (°C).
Time frame: At 0, 30, and 60 minutes.
Secondary Outcome 2: Infant Heart Rate
Infant heart rate measured in beats per minute.
Time frame: At 0, 30, and 60 minutes.
Secondary Outcome 3: Infant Respiratory Rate
Infant respiratory rate measured in breaths per minute.
Time frame: At 0, 30, and 60 minutes.
Secondary Outcome 4: Infant Oxygen Saturation
Pulse oximetry oxygen saturation measured as %SpO₂.
Time frame: At 0, 30, and 60 minutes.
Secondary Outcome 5: Infant Blood Pressure
Non-invasive systolic and diastolic blood pressure measured in mmHg.
Time frame: At 0, 30, and 60 minutes.
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