Integrated Maternal and Newborn Care Basic Skills Course ...

there is premature rupture of membranes or leaking of the amniotic fluid for
more than 18 hours
o Follow the other guidelines for referral noted in chapter 13 on major infections.
Kangaroo Mother Care
Kangaroo mother care (KMC) is a simple method that promotes the health and the well-being of
the LBW/preterm baby by skin-to-skin contact with his/her
mother or another person through maintaining the baby’s body
temperature and encouraging exclusive breastfeeding.
In some countries, mothers do not like being compared to an
animal. If this is the case, describe this method of care as “skinto-skin
contact” to protect the vulnerable low birth weight infant.
Advantages of KMC
For the baby:
Figure 12.2. The kangaroo with the
baby in the pouch.
• It is a low cost method that is a good alternative to conventional care of preterm/LBW
babies in low resource countries.
• The outcome has been similar to use of an incubator, which is more expensive and more
difficult to maintain.
• The baby is comfortable in this position and is quieter, crying less frequently than in
incubators.
• The vertical position decreases the risk of aspiration, improves cardio-respiratory
functions, and decreases apnea.
• Closeness to the breast favors frequent sucking that prolongs the duration of
breastfeeding.
• The hospital stay is shorter.
For the mother:
• It helps to empower the mother as she plays the main role by providing warmth to her
baby, protection against infections, and nutrition through breastfeeding.
• It promotes mother-infant bonding and decreased rejection of preterm babies.
• The method includes participation of the mother and family in the care of the baby.
• It allows the mother to return to activities at home while caring for the baby.
Preparation for Kangaroo Mother Care
• Start KMC as soon as possible after birth, when breathing has been well established and
the baby does not require any medical treatment.
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Integrated maternal and newborn care
Basic skills course