Impact of Tactile Kinesthetic Stimulation and Soft Tissue Manipulation on Cortisol in Preterm

"Tactile-Kinesthetic Stimulation (TKS): TKS involves the application of tactile (touch) and kinesthetic (movement) stimuli to various parts of the body. This technique aims to enhance sensory awareness and motor control. TKS can include gentle tapping, brushing, or vibration on the skin, joints, or muscles. The sensory input provided through TKS helps in proprioceptive feedback, which is essential for improving body awareness, coordination, and movement patterns. It is often used in neurological rehabilitation to facilitate neuromuscular re-education and in pediatric therapy to promote sensory integration.~Soft Tissue Manipulation (STM): STM involves various manual techniques applied to the soft tissues of the body, including muscles, tendons, ligaments, and fascia. These techniques can range from gentle stretching and mobilization to deeper techniques such as myofascial release, trigger point therapy, and deep tissue massage. STM aims to alleviate muscle tension, improve flexibility,"

Nursing care for preterm neonates involves a higher level of monitoring and specialized support due to their underdeveloped physiological systems. Nurses focus on maintaining thermal regulation through incubators or radiant warmers to prevent hypothermia, as preterm infants are more vulnerable to temperature instability. Respiratory support is critical, often requiring continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) or mechanical ventilation to assist with immature lungs. Nutritional support is provided through intravenous fluids or gavage feeding (tube feeding) if the infant is not yet able to breastfeed or bottle-feed. Nurses also monitor for complications such as hypoglycemia, infection, and jaundice and administer antibiotics, vitamin K, and eye prophylaxis as needed. Developmentally supportive care is emphasized, including minimizing sensory overload and encouraging kangaroo care (skin-to-skin contact) to support bonding, promote growth, and help regulate the neonate's heart rate, temp