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Review
. 2020 Jul;109(7):1292-1301.
doi: 10.1111/apa.15173. Epub 2020 Feb 25.

Recommendations on neonatal light environment from the French Neonatal Society

Claire Zores-Koenig  1   2 , Pierre Kuhn  1   2 , Laurence Caeymaex  3 ; Group of Reflection and  Evaluation of the Environment of Newborns study group of the French Neonatology Society
Collaborators, Affiliations
Review

Recommendations on neonatal light environment from the French Neonatal Society

Claire Zores-Koenig et al. Acta Paediatr. 2020 Jul.

Abstract

Aim: Hospital light may affect neonatal neurosensory development and the well-being of parents and caregivers. We aimed to issue practical recommendations regarding the optimal light environment for neonatal units.

Methods: A systematic evaluation was performed using PubMed to identify relevant papers published in English or French up to July 2018, and the different grades of evidence were evaluated.

Results: We identified 89 studies and one meta-analysis and examined 31 eligible studies. The major results were that natural or artificial light should not exceed 1000 lux and that all changes in light level should be gradual. Light protection should be used for infants of <32 weeks of postmenstrual age and but must be individualised to each infant. Infants should not be exposed to continuous high light levels regardless of their term and postnatal age. Cycled light before discharge seemed to be safe and beneficial. For medical caregivers' well-being, higher light levels and access to natural light are recommended. Special attention should be given to protecting neonatal patients from high light levels that may be necessary when performing specific care procedures.

Conclusion: Consideration of general principles and practical applications can improve the neonatal light environment for newborn infants, parents and caregivers.

Keywords: caregivers; light; neonatal intensive care unit; newborn infant; recommendations.

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Comment in

  • Right lighting the NICU.
    White RD. White RD. Acta Paediatr. 2020 Jul;109(7):1288-1289. doi: 10.1111/apa.15193. Epub 2020 Feb 22. Acta Paediatr. 2020. PMID: 32086971 No abstract available.

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