The importance of kangaroo care on infant oxygen saturation levels and bonding

Kangaroo care is a method of caring for newborn infants, and has benefits that include stabilisation of cardio-respiratory system, thermoregulation and a higher incidence of exclusive breastfeeding. Skin-to-skin contact has an important role both for the sick infant and its parents because of the positive implications on the growth and development of the preterm infant. Specifically KC can improve infants oxygen saturation and significantly reduce their oxygen requirements during the contact time. Physical contact between preterm infants and parents is often very delayed. KC allows this contact sooner than normal and improves parental confidence in caring for their infant. Research shows that KC is safe and beneficial however time, space and lack of protocol inhibit regular use of KC in neonatal units.