Effect of Position Priority on Physiological Variables in Preterm Newborns Receiving Respiratory Support: Randomized Controlled Trial

ÖZ Objective: This study was designed to evaluate the effect of supine and prone position priority on oxygen saturation and heart rate in preterm newborns receiving respiratory support. Methods: This was a randomized controlled study. Preterm newborns who were aged <7 days, clinically stable and received respiratory support were included. The sample group consisted of 38 preterm newborns were divided into two groups by randomization according to position priority; Group 1 [supine/prone (S/P)], Group 2 [prone/supine (P/S)]. Results: In both prone and supine positions, the mean oxygen saturation of preterm newborns in Group 2 (P/S) was found to be significantly higher than those in Group 1 (S/P). It was determined that the mean heart rate of preterm newborns in Group 1 (S/P) in the supine position was significantly lower than in Group 2 (P/S). Conclusion: Giving the prone position first and then the supine position to preterm newborns receiving respiratory support increases oxygen saturation.