Massage, Tub Bathing, and Sponge Bathing Effects on Neonatal Bilirubin and Comfort

Effects of Massage, Tub Bathing, and Sponge Bathing on Bilirubin Levels, Skin Barrier, Neonatal Comfort, and Vital Signs: A Randomized Clinical Trial

This randomized controlled trial evaluates the effects of massage, tub bathing, and sponge bathing on bilirubin levels, skin integrity, neonatal comfort, and physiological parameters in term newborns undergoing phototherapy

Term newborns undergoing phototherapy in the neonatal intensive care unit will be randomized into four groups: massage, sponge bath, tub bath, and control. Pre-intervention assessments include vital signs, skin moisture, bilirubin levels, the Neonatal Comfort Behavior Scale, and the Skin Condition Assessment Scale. Post-intervention assessments are conducted at multiple time points. The study investigates whether massage and bathing interventions can improve comfort, maintain skin integrity, and reduce bilirubin levels more effectively than standard care.

Inclusion Criteria:

Inclusion newborns (>37 weeks gestation)

• Receiving phototherapy
• Stable vital signs
• Parental consent

Exclusion Criteria:

• Congenital anomalies
• Severe infections or sepsis
• Parental refusal