Abstract
Background: KMC method is a set of interventions for providing appropriate health care to preterm and/or LBW infants, based on the kangaroo position. Since it was first described (Rey 1978) considerable variability has developed. There is a need to standardize the intervention, based on scientific evidence that supports its benefits and limitations.
Objective: Develop recommendations about characterization and proper use of the KMC method, and to support each assertion with a systematic review of evidence.
Design: A Multidisciplinary group (authorities, users, parents of patients, methodological and content experts) worked between 2005 and 2007. After defining terms and characterizing components of the intervention, a systematic review of literature was conducted for identifying and appraising the evidence regarding the effects, risks, benefits and limitations of each component. Evidence based assertions were discussed until consensus was achieved and were evaluated by external peers.
Results: Standardized definitions of KMC and its component, variants, target population, indications and precautions were produced. An evidence-based foundation for each component was developed, identifying strength of evidence, knowledge gaps, areas of controversy and needs for further research. Discussion of basic aspects and results of relevant research were added to each recommendation together with descriptions of the appropriate implementation of KMC.
Conclusions: Although sound guidelines should be tailored to local needs and conditions, and this particular exercise is focused in the Colombian situation, it is reasonable to expect that many of the recommendations and certainly most of the evidence appraised will be a useful input for guidelines development elsewhere.
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Ruiz-Pelaez, J., Charpak, N. 973 Evidence-Based Guidelines for the Use of the Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC) Method in Stable Lbw Infants in Colombia. Pediatr Res 68 (Suppl 1), 485 (2010). https://doi.org/10.1203/00006450-201011001-00973
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1203/00006450-201011001-00973