Awareness and use of cycled light by neonatal intensive care nurses in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Introduction

Cycled light provides physiological, psychological, and growth and development benefits for neonates in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Limited research is available on neonatal intensive care nurses' awareness and use of cycled light in Saudi Arabia.

Aim

To assess the awareness and use of cycled light by neonatal intensive care nurses in Saudi Arabia.

Method

This study used a cross-sectional online survey on the use and awareness of NICU nurses about cycled light. Data were gathered from 132 NICU nurses working in private and public hospitals in Saudi Arabia. The SurveyMonkey platform was used to collect the data.

Results

Continuous near darkness was used for light protection of term and preterm neonates (100%). Cycled light was not used in any unit, and there were no policies or guidelines for cycled light use in any unit. Sixty-one percent of the participants read or heard about the use and benefits of cycled light for neonates. The awareness level of the NICU nurses regarding cycled light and its benefits was moderate (Mean = 3.5 out of 5, SD = 0.9).

Conclusion

Cycled light is not used by the NICU nurses who participated in this study. Interventional programs and policies are needed to move the evidence into practice related to cycled light in Saudi Arabian NICUs.

Implications for the clinical practice

There is a need to move the evidence into practice about cycled light in Saudi NICUs. Decision-makers should create and implement a policy/protocol for using the cycled light. This policy should include the definition, instructions, age group, and the nurse's competency and responsibility.