Preventing Infection with Topical Emollient Oil Massage

Preterm infants are highly susceptible to infections, which contribute significantly to morbidity and mortality. A recent systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the effectiveness of topical emollient oil application in preventing infections among preterm infants. The analysis included 11 studies that met the eligibility criteria.

The findings showed that preterm infants who received massages with emollient oils had a 21% reduced risk of infection. Notably, preterm babies massaged with coconut oil twice daily for more than two weeks had a lower likelihood of acquiring infections compared with non-massaged infants.

These results support the role of topical emollient oil massage as a simple, effective intervention to prevent infections in preterm neonates.

Reference:

Getaneh FB, Asmare A, Abayneh B, et al. Infection in preterm infants receiving topical emollient oil massage: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. BMJ Paediatr Open. 2024 Jul 10;8(1):e002364. doi: 10.1136/bmjpo-2023-002364.