Effectiveness of cycled lighting in neonatal intensive care unit on weight and cardiorespiratory function in preterm infants

Abstract

Hospitalization in neonatal intensive care units predisposes preterm neonates to negative stimuli such as continuous 24-hourlighting. Potential benefits and harms of different lighting in neonatal units have not been quantified. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the benefits of a cycled lighting (light/dark cycle) in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit on weight and cardiorespiratory function in premature infants. A Randomized clinical trial performed on preterm neonates who hospitalized in NICU at Assiut University Children Hospital, Egypt. From admission to discharge, neonates were randomly exposed to cyclical lighting (study) or continuous lighting (control) groups, twenty in each one. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data and included personal data, weight and cardiorespiratory assessment. The Results of the study revealed that mean of neonates' weight in the study group was significantly greater than control group (P. 0.017). Mean pulse rates at 10 days and at discharge were significantly more stable in the study group compared to control group (p<0.002 & p<0.028). Moreover, the mean O2 saturation is significantly better in study group than control (P<0.045). Conclusions: Cycled lighting is an effective strategy to improve premature neonates' weight and cardiorespiratory function. Recommendations: Nurses should be aware of the importance of applying the Cycled lighting at NICU to improve preterm neonates' health.