Developmental care

Question 1

What is developmental care

Answer 1

Practices implemented in the nursery to promote neurodevelopment to support optimal outcomes, which is extremely rapid in the third trimester

Question 2

Outline some developmental care strategies implemented in SCN and their rationale/benefit

Answer 2

Nesting
- done to promote midline positioning
- provides boundaries which mimics the womb
- infant can push arms and legs into nest, supporting muscle development

Skin to skin
- beneficial in regulating infants temperature, resp rate, heart rate, settling autonomic nervous system and supporting sleep
- promotes bonding

Minimal noise and lighting
- done to avoid cochlear damage
- promotes circadian rhythm when lights mimic this
- reduce stimulation to support longer periods of uninterrupted sleep

Clustering cares
- encourages minimal handling
- protects sleep for 4-6 hours which is vital for development
- done by coordinatign GNC or cuddles with other procedures

Cue based care
- caring for the infant while recognising behavioural cues and stress responses
- modifying care based on these eg. time out or modification of task
- signs of stress, or signs of readiness eg. suck feeds or baths
- supports working with the infants reserves and temprament to avoid undue stress

Assessing for signs of distress
- sats
- hands pushing out

Question 3

Describe how developmental care can be implemented to optimise neurodevelopment of the newborn in the neonatal unit

Question 4

Describe the principles of positioning that are important

Answer 4

• midline
• hands to face
• aligned
• contained
• smooth movements
• brace legs or feet

Question 5

Discuss the importance of context when positioning a baby or engaging in kangaroo care

Question 6

What are the goals of developmental care

Answer 6

• conserve infant energy to maximise recovery
• promote growth and wellbeing
• protect sleep
• support emerging behaviours at their neurodevelopmental stage