Evaluating physiologic outcomes of music interventions in the neonatal intensive care unit: a systematic review

Abstract

Music is widely used in the neonatal intensive care unit. The objectives of this systematic review are: (1) clarify the current literature in regards to the impact of music on neonatal physiologic parameters, (2) highlight the variability in definitions utilized for music interventions, and (3) provide a foundation for future music therapy research focused on influencing neonatal physiology. A systematic literature review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines, with search terms including "music," "music therapy," "neonates," "newborn," and "NICU." Four hundred and fifty-eight studies were reduced to 16 clinical trials divided based on methodological description of music intervention. Our review highlights variability in the existing literature specifically on neonatal physiological impact of music. Future studies should focus on consistent and well-defined data collection, utilization of standardized definitions for music interventions, and consideration of more sensitive markers of physiology, such as heart rate variability, to enhance study rigor and reproducibility.