Clinical Research Directory

Sensory Mindfulness for NICU Mothers: Effects on Breast Milk, Well-Being, and Stress

Abstract Background: Breast milk is the optimal source of nutrition for infant growth and development and provides important physical and psychological benefits for mothers. Because many infants in the Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICU) cannot be breastfed directly, mothers are required to express milk regularly; however, stress, anxiety, and depression may negatively affect milk production and the milk ejection reflex. This study aims to evaluate the effect of the sensory mindfulness intervention on breast milk volume, pumping duration, maternal well-being, stress levels, and cognitive and emotional mindfulness.

Effects of Swaddling and Nesting on Pain and Stress in Newborns

This study aims to investigate the effects of swaddling and cradling methods on pain and stress levels in newborn infants receiving respiratory support. Infants receiving respiratory support in the neonatal intensive care unit may experience stress and discomfort during treatment. In this study, two different care methods that help infants feel more comfortable and secure will be scientifically compared. Only one of the Swaddling or Nesting methods will be applied to the newborns participating in the study. These methods are comfort-enhancing care practices routinely used in neonatal intensive care that do not harm the baby. The newborn's heart rate, respiratory rate, oxygen level, pain and stress symptoms will be closely and safely monitored by the healthcare team. A pain-free saliva sample will be collected to assess the newborn's stress level. It does not involve needles, does not hurt, and takes approximately 2 minutes. Pain and stress levels will be assessed in a multifaceted manner using clinical observation, physiological parameters, and saliva cortisol levels. The study aims to contribute to the strengthening of evidence-based non-pharmacological care practices in neonatal intensive care.