Effect of Tactile and Kinaesthetic Stimulation in Preterm Neonates with Hyperbilirubinaemia: A Study Protocol

Abstract

Introduction: Elevated Total Serum/Plasma Bilirubin (TSB) levels in the blood manifest as hyperbilirubinaemia, which is commonly observed among newborns and can result in significant long-term consequences. Need for the study: Long-term phototherapy may have negative effects on newborns. These effects can potentially be mitigated if tactile and kinaesthetic stimulation are proven to be effective as adjuvants to phototherapy, thereby reducing its duration. Aim: The study aims to investigate the effect of tactile and kinaesthetic stimulation among preterm neonates with hyperbilirubinaemia. Materials and Methods: Ninety-four neonates with hyperbilirubinaemia admitted to a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) will be recruited and allocated through block randomisation into two groups: the experimental group (massage therapy + tactile stimulation + phototherapy) and the control group (only phototherapy). TSB levels, Transcutaneous Bilirubin (TcB) levels, and weight gain in neonates will be measured as outcomes at baseline and each day for two days following treatment.

Keywords

• bilirubin
• massage
• newborn
• phototherapy