A Systematic Assessment of The Impact of Kangaroo Mother Care on Preterm Infants' Physiological Characteristics

Abstract

Introduction: The systematic review highlights that Kangaroo Mother Care positively that impacts physiological parameters in preterm neonates. It shows that Kangaroo Mother Care improves vital signs, with one-hour or shorter session’s significantly enhancing temperature and oxygen saturation. Aim: The systematic review aims to evaluate, effectiveness of KMC on preterm neonates and its physiological parameters. Method: Digital resources including PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library, Scopus, and CINAHL were thoroughly searched. Searching for relevant MeSH source terms and KMC infant keywords, including preterm and low birth weight infants. Only English-language research published between 2013 and 2023 is included in the search. For more sources, the reference lists of pertinent papers and systematic reviews are examined. Results: Initially, 120 studies that met the searching strategies in the said databases. Meta-analysis was used in the study and data used were based on the criteria meant the present research. The synthesized findings on respiratory rate, heart rate variability, and temperature regulation among preterm neonates receiving KMC are compared to conventional care or differing initiation timings. The results show that, especially with one-hour or shorter sessions, it has a considerable good impact on newborns' vital signs, including temperature and oxygen saturation. The findings emphasize the importance of KMC as a simple yet effective intervention in neonatal care. Future research should explore optimal durations and frequencies to maximize its benefits.