Warming mattresses for newborns: effectiveness and risks

Jean-Pierre Libert, Stéphane Delanaud and Véronique Bach

Received: December 15, 2017;   Published: December 19, 2017

DOI: 10.26717/BJSTR.2017.01.000608

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Abstract

Premature and low-birth-weight newborns are particularly exposed to a risk of hypothermia. Warming techniques are therefore needed to maintain the newborn’s body temperature. Warming mattresses provide external conductive heat and, if required, can be combined with other warming devices (such as radiant warmers and closed incubators). The present manuscript reviews the effectiveness of warming mattresses and the potential risks of hyperthermia when these mattresses are combined with other devices. It is essential to

a) standardize practice for this care technique within healthcare institutions, and

b) continuously measure the newborn’s body temperature during mattress use.

Keywords: Newborn; Warming mattress; Hyperthermia; Hypothermia

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