The Cues and Care Trial: A randomized controlled trial of an intervention to reduce maternal anxiety and improve developmental outcomes in very low birthweight infants
2008

Cues and Care Trial: Helping Mothers of Very Low Birthweight Infants

Sample size: 92 publication 10 minutes Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Zelkowitz Phyllis, Feeley Nancy, Shrier Ian, Stremler Robyn, Westreich Ruta, Dunkley David, Steele Russell, Rosberger Zeev, Lefebvre Francine, Papageorgiou Apostolos

Primary Institution: McGill University

Hypothesis

The primary hypothesis of the study is that immediately post-intervention, mothers in the intervention group will be less anxious than those in the attention control group.

Conclusion

The Cues and Care trial aims to reduce maternal anxiety and improve sensitive interactions with very low birthweight infants, potentially leading to better developmental outcomes.

Supporting Evidence

  • Very low birthweight infants are at high risk for developmental delays and behavioral problems.
  • Maternal anxiety can negatively impact the ability to interact sensitively with infants.
  • Interventions that improve maternal sensitivity can lead to better outcomes for infants.

Takeaway

This study is trying to help moms of tiny babies feel less worried and better connect with their babies, which can help the babies grow up healthier.

Methodology

Mothers of singleton infants born at weights below 1500 g are randomly assigned to either a Cues intervention or an attention control condition, with outcomes measured via self-report questionnaires.

Potential Biases

Potential contamination between mothers in the NICU could affect the results.

Limitations

The study may not generalize to mothers of infants with major congenital anomalies or those who are not able to participate due to severe infant health issues.

Participant Demographics

Mothers of singleton infants born weighing less than 1500 grams, able to speak and read English or French.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.001

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1471-2431-8-38

Want to read the original?

Access the complete publication on the publisher's website

View Original Publication