Impact of kangaroo mother care on physiological stability in low-birth-weight infants: A nursing perspective

Abstract

Background: Low-Birth-Weight (LBW) infants are at a significantly increased risk of neonatal morbidity and mortality, particularly in resource-limited settings such as rural Bangladesh. Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC), a low-cost and evidence-based intervention, has shown promise in improving physiological outcomes among these vulnerable neonates. This study aimed to assess the impact of KMC on the physiological stability of LBW infants in a rural healthcare setting from a nursing perspective. Methods: A quasi-experimental study was conducted at Tanore Upazila Health Complex in Rajshahi Division, Bangladesh. A total of 60 LBW infants (birth weight < 2500g) were enrolled and equally divided into KMC (N=30) and control (N=30) groups. The KMC group received continuous skin-to-skin care and exclusive breastfeeding support, while the control group received standard incubator-based care. Physiological stability was assessed using the Neonatal Physiological Stability Index (NPSI), which includes measurements of temperature, respiratory rate, heart rate, and oxygen saturation. Weight gain, feeding frequency, and early complications were also monitored over 72 hours. Results: Infants in the KMC group demonstrated significantly improved body temperature (36.7°C vs. 35.9°C), lower respiratory rate (42±5 vs. 52±7 breaths/min), more stable heart rate (135±10 vs. 148±15 beats/min), and higher oxygen saturation (97% vs. 92%) compared to controls (p