Effects of Topical Emollient Therapy on Infants at or Less than 27 Weeks’ Gestation. METHODS
This retrospective chart review was conducted at a level-3 nursery in central Texas. After reviewing the study by Nopper et al., the nursery at this institution began practice of topical application of emollient (Aquaphor, Beiersdorf Inc., Norwalk, CT) to extreme-ly-low-birthweight infants. Aquaphor ointment contains petrolatum, mineral oil, ceresin and lanolin alcohol. As per the manufacturer’s product information, Aquaphor contains no fragrances or preservatives that can irritate sensitive skin. Emollient was applied topically every six hours during the first two weeks of life to the entire body surface area of the infant, including face and scalp. Precautions were taken to avoid contact with infant’s eyes. The ointment was supplied in individual tubes prepared by our children’s pharmacy and allocated to each patient. The application of the ointment was charted appropriately in the patient’s electronic medical record by nursing staff, as a medication.
Prior to the institution of Aquaphor use, infants were kept under plastic wrap to decrease insensible water loss, and other topical applications such as Eucerin were used as necessary for skin care. Plastic wrap covers were not used for infants receiving the Aquaphor therapy. Need medication you can’t afford? Buy Levaquin 500 mg