Abstract
Introduction: Prematurity is defined as when a baby is born between 22-37 weeks of gestation, being called premature and considered low birth weight, less than 2,500 g. Stress reduction therapies become essential in minimizing the stressful stimuli caused in the NICU. Objective: To analyze the effects of stress reduction therapy on the neuropsychomotor development of preterm newborns, addressing the physical therapy performance in the neonatal intensive care unit. Methodology: This is a descriptive literature review conducted through the PubMed, Lilacs, and Scielo databases, between 2010-2022, from September to November. Results: 30 studies were selected and addressed stress reduction therapies in an individualized way in view of their impact on the NPMD of premature infants in the NICU, showing their effects and contributions to the newborn. Discussion: Stress reduction therapies act as strategies to stimulate NPMD early. Therapeutic touch, hot tub bath, kangaroo method, music therapy, hammock and nest are some of the techniques used by physiotherapists, which act by reducing vital signs promoting a better prognosis for the baby. Conclusion: Therefore, the techniques act significantly in minimizing the external stimuli caused to the preterm infant. In this way, the physiotherapist within the multidisciplinary team provides a more effective program of positioning, stimuli and care aimed at the progression of NPMD in premature infants, reducing the chances of possible complications and length of hospital stay. It is also necessary to further study the techniques in order to obtain more results.
DOI:https://doi.org/10.56238/sevened2024.002-048