Effectiveness of prone positioning on physiological parameters among neonates on oxygen therapy in Government Rajaji Hospital, Madurai.

Abstract

Background: Neonates receiving oxygen therapy in NICU are at risk of physiological instability, requiring effective nursing interventions to improve outcomes. Prone positioning has been suggested as a beneficial strategy, but evidence is limited in the Indian context. Aim: To evaluate the effectiveness of prone positioning on physiological parameters among neonates on oxygen therapy in Government Rajaji Hospital, Madurai. Methods: A quantitative quasi-experimental design with intervention and control groups was adopted. Sixty neonates (30 per group) were selected using purposive sampling. Physiological parameters were assessed before and after intervention using structured observation. Descriptive and inferential statistics, including paired t-test, independent t-test, and chi-square test, were applied. Results: In the intervention group, the mean pretest score (7.17 ± 2.40) significantly reduced to 2.13 ± 1.22 in the posttest (t = 15.7, p < 0.001), indicating improved physiological stability. The control group showed no significant improvement (6.90 ± 2.05 to 6.40 ± 2.54). Posttest comparison between groups revealed a very highly significant difference (t = 8.28, p < 0.001). A significant association was found between posttest physiological parameters and mode of oxygen delivery (χ² = 4.61, p = 0.04), while no association was observed with sociodemographic variables. Conclusion: The study proved that prone positioning is highly effective in improving physiological parameters among neonates on oxygen therapy. Incorporating prone positioning as a routine nursing intervention may enhance neonatal care outcomes.