Question

kangaroo care for premature infants PICO(T) questions

Answer 1

Kangaroo mother care refers to care of preterm or low birth weight infants by placing the infant's in skin to skin contact with the mother or any other caregiver. Initially conceived as an alternative to conventional warmer care for LBW infants, KMC has now become standard of care either as an alternative to or an adjunct to technology based care.

Key features-

Started early after birth and ideally provided continuously and for prolonged period.

Exclusive breastfeeding.

Initiated in the birthing facility/hospital, the baby is discharged early and the KMC continued at home.

Initiation of KMC

Counseling- When baby is ready for KMC, arrange a time that is convenient to the mother and her baby. The first few sessions are important and require extended interaction.

Mother's clothing- KMC can be provided using any front open, light dress as per the local cultur. KMC works well with blouse and sari,gown or shawl.

Baby's clothing- Baby is dressed with cap,socks,nappy and front open sleeveless shirt.

Procedure-

Kangaroo positioning- The baby should be placed between the mother's breasts in an upright position. The head should be turned to one side and in a slightly extended position. This slightly extended head position keeps the airway open and allows eye to eye contact between the mother and her baby.The hips should be flexed and abducted in a frog position; the arms should also be flexed. Baby's abdomen should be at the level of the mother's epigastrium. Mother's breathing stimulates the baby,thus reducing the occurrence of apnea. Support the baby's bottom with a sling or binder.