Thesis (M.Sc.) - Cairo University - Faculty of Physical Therapy - Department of Growth and Development Disorders

Background: Apnea of prematurity (AOP) is one of the most common diagnoses in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). It may be associated with bradycardia, cyanosis, brain damage, neurodevelopmental complications, and even death. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to compare the effect of tactile and olfactory stimulation on neonatal behavior in premature neonates with apnea. Methods: randomized control trial design utilizing a sample of 30 neonates (16 girls and 14 boys) born at 30 to 36 weeks gestational age with apnea of prematurity with mean ± standard deviation 33.40 ±1.50 weeks for group I (tactile group) and 34.00 ±1.41 weeks for group II (olfactory group). Heart rate and oxygen saturation were measured by pulse oximeter while neonatal reflexes were assessed by Brazelton Neonatal Behavioral Assessment Scale. Results: Data analysis revealed that there were statistically significant difference when comparing pre and post treatment values of both groups (P {u2264} 0.05). Conclusion: Tactile and olfactory stimulations are two effective methods for improving neonatal behavior with tactile stimulation is more advantageous.These results provide an objective information in formulation of effective strategies for selection of appropriate neonatal apnea treatments

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