The effect of Positions on selected Physiological parameters among Term Neonates in a selected Hospital, Kerala

Simple intervention like appropriate positioning of neonate is vital since it affects many physiological parameters and reduces neonatal morbidity. This study was conducted to assess the effect of positions on selected physiological parameters among term neonates in a selected hospital, Kerala. The objectives were (1) To assess the effect of supine position on selected physiological parameters among term neonates. (2) To assess the effect of lateral position on selected physiological parameters among term neonates. (3) To assess the effect of prone position on selected physiological parameters among term neonates. (4) To compare the effects of supine, lateral and prone positions on physiological parameters among term neonates. (5) To associate the effect of positions on physiological parameters among term neonates with selected variables. One group pre-test post- test design was used to collect data from a total of forty subjects, by purposive sampling method. Baseline proforma and observation chart were used to collect the data. The heart rate, respiratory rate and oxygen saturation were recorded at 5th, 15th and 30th minutes in supine, lateral and prone positions. The data was analyzed by descriptive and inferential statistics. Comparison of effect of positions revealed that the mean heart rate and mean oxygen saturation showed the highest values in supine position. Highest mean respiratory rate was same in supine and prone position. With neonatal age in days and gestational age in weeks oxygen saturation showed a positive correlation. The Fisher test revealed that there was statistical difference at 5% significant level only in heart rate and respiratory rate in supine and prone position.