ABSTRACT
We prospectively tested the hypothesis that prevention of lateral movement of the
head, using a specially designed head support apparatus, would prevent oxygen desaturation
in preterm infants restrained in car seats. Preterm infants reaching 34 to 35 weeks'
gestation were studied at the week of discharge in 3 different conditions for 20 minutes
each time: supine decubitus, sitting position in a newborn car seat, and sitting position
in the car seat equipped with an apparatus that supports the head, while monitored
by pulse oxymetry. Data are expressed as percent of time over each period during which
the oxygen saturation was below 90, 92, 94, or 96%. Statistical analysis was by analysis
of variance (ANOVA) followed by paired Student t-test for differences of means. There were no significant differences among groups
in percent of time with oxygen saturation below 96, 94, 92, or 90%. Oxygenation is
not improved in relatively healthy preterm infants placed in a car seat when their
head is supported to prevent lateral movements by a special apparatus.
KEYWORD
Oxygen desaturation - preterm infants - head support
