4.1 |Strength and limitations The strengths of the study included the randomised controlled trial
design. The reliability of the naturalistic observations was strength-
ened by using Brazelton's NBAS scale, which is a validated instru-
ment,
23
and a standardised observation protocol. In addition, the
physiological parameters were standardised with the same proce-
dure and the same personnel conducted the naturalistic observa-
tions and performed all the measurements. They strengthened the
validity. A possible limitation could be that all the newborn infants
were treated under a heater for 30 minutes after birth to ensure
their temperature was stable immediately before the interventions.
However, it was normal after 30 minutes (36.8°C) and remained nor-
mal at the end of the study period of 120 minutes. Moreover, the
results of our study agreed with previous research.
24
5 | CONCLUSION Healthy newborn infants born by elective Caesarean section showed
stable physiological patterns, temperature, heart rate and peripheral
oxygen saturation, when they received three different caregiving
models. The father-infant skin-to-skin contact group demonstrated
other advantages, and no negative effects were observed. This car-
egiving model should be supported if mothers and infants need to
be separated.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS The authors are grateful to the Obstetric Service at Sótero del Río
Hospital, chief midwife Veronica Gallegos, Dr Patricia Mena, head of
the Neonatology Service and the midwives who made this research
possible.
CONFLIC T OF INTEREST The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare.
ORCID Ana Ayala https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8207-9629
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