Downloads: 1 | Views: 75 | Weekly Hits: ⮙1 | Monthly Hits: ⮙1
Review Papers | Occupational Therapy | India | Volume 12 Issue 3, March 2023 | Rating: 5.2 / 10
Use of Infant Positioning Assessment Tool (IPAT) for Assessment and Intervention in Preterm Infants with Low Birth Weight - A Scoping Review
Dr Sukanya Shelke | Dr Shailaja Jaywant
Abstract: The infants born before 37 weeks of gestation are termed as preterm infants. As there is an interruption in their intrauterine growth, they are vulnerable population and requires advanced medical intervention. These infants require support to facilitate and maintain intrauterine posture and hence therapeutic positioning plays an important role. Infant Positioning Assessment Tool (IPAT) is a tool which provides the pictorial representation of infant positioning along with nesting rolls. Objective: The study was conducted to find the scientific evidence of Infant Positioning Assessment Tool (IPAT) on the position of the preterm infants. Methodology: The scooping review was carried out in June 2022 using search engine such as PubMed, Google Scholar, Academia, CINHAL Plus and Science Direct. The search was limited from year 2011 - 2021. The selection process of the studies was based primarily on analysis of the titles and abstract, followed by the analysis of full text of selected articles, based on inclusion criteria. Results: A total of 30 studies were reviewed, out of which 20 met the criteria. It was found that when the IPAT been a pictorial tool was very convenient to use in NICU. The nurses, resident doctors and caregivers were able to position the infant appropriately within the nesting roll and infants were able to maintain midline orientation. Due to proper positioning, the infants were able to maintain their vitals, neurobehavioral status, and motor activity. Conclusion: As IPAT is a pictorial tool, it was easily adapted and integrated by NICU staff. It is a valid, reliable, and useful tool. As it encourages the midline orientation, preterm infants can maintain their vitals, neurobehavior and motor activity.
Keywords: preterm infants, low birth weight, positioning, IPAT, nesting roll, neurobehaviour, NICU, motor activity
Edition: Volume 12 Issue 3, March 2023,
Pages: 1377 - 1380