ORCID
- Jos M. Latour: 0000-0002-8087-6461
Abstract
Background: Tactile kinaesthetic stimulation (TKS) might support enteral feeding and meconium excretion in preterm infants, but volvulus has been linked to abdominal massage. Aim: To map the evidence and to identify knowledge gaps on TKS in preterm infants. Methods: A scoping review was conducted in August 2024 using four databases. Results: Ten studies (totaling 268 infants weighing 1000–2500g at birth) met inclusion criteria. All studies utilized whole-body TKS, involving stroking and movement with moderate to gentle pressure, administered 1 to 3 times daily by staff. Starting TKS in the first days of life seemed to improve meconium excretion, while later interventions were associated with enhanced vagal activity and gastric motility. The effect of TKS on enteral feeding remains unknown. Conclusion: Research gaps exist regarding TKS for promoting enteral feeding and meconium excretion in preterm infants. Optimal methods and adaptations for this vulnerable patient group are uncertain.
Publication Date
2025-03-13
Publication Title
Journal of Neonatal Nursing
Volume
31
Issue
3
ISSN
1355-1841
Keywords
Abdominal pressure, Enteral food buildup, Meconium excretion, Tactile kinaesthetic stimulation, Very low birth weight infant
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Recommended Citation
Hurst, N., Latour, J., Poets, C., & Schwarz, C. (2025) 'Tactile kinaesthetic methods without abdominal pressure promoting gastrointestinal passage in preterm infants: A scoping review', Journal of Neonatal Nursing, 31(3). Available at: 10.1016/j.jnn.2025.101643
