Minimising sensory stimuli to improve growth and development for newborn infants in the neonatal unit

The preterm and sick infant experiences a hostile environment in the neonatal care setting as compared to the womb (Across all care levels – intensive to special care) This altered sensory experience can have a negative impact on an infant’s development. While neonatology has been characterised by monumental improvements in medical and nursing care, only recently has there been a focus on the environmental and interpersonal experiences of the infant in the neonatal unit There is a variety of inconsistent practices in the neonatal setting;this review aims to make recommendations for practice. Cochrane Database Protocol submission, accepted.