Thesis (Ph.D.) - Cairo University - Faculty of Nursing - Department of Pediatric Nursing

Touch is one of the first strong positive senses that develop in neonates. Therapeutic touch could be considered as a complementary treatment in Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.This quasi-experimental study was to evaluate the effect of two relaxation methods of touch, gentle human touch and Yakson on Preterm's behavioral reaction at Maternal and Newborn Hospital in Kaser Al Ani Hospital- Cairo University. Ninety preterm neonates divided into three equal groups ''thirty for each'', control, gentle human touch and Yakson. Each preterm neonate received both interventions provided for twice a day for consecutive five days. Each session lasting for fifteen minutes. The control group received routine nursing care, while the other two groups received either gentle human touch or Yakson in addition to routine care. Results revealed a statistically significantly difference of both intervention groups regarding to heart rate, respiratory rate, oxygen saturation and Anderson score compared to that of control. The intervention groups had improved the sleep state for preterm neonates than that of control. In conclusion: gentle human touch and Yakson interventions enhanced physiological parameters and improved behavioral state of preterm neonates also had soothing calming effect on preterm neonates. It is recommended to apply both methods of touch as an effective and safe in routine care for preterm neonates

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