Estratégias de enfermagem para prevenção de danos neuropsicomotores em prematuros na UTIN: revisão narrativa.

Abstract

Introduction: Premature birth is associated with significant risks to the neuropsychomotor development of the newborn, requiring specialized and systematic care, especially in Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICU). In this context, Nursing plays an essential role in the implementation of strategies that favor the clinical stabilization and integral development of the newborn. Objective: To synthesize Nursing strategies for the prevention of neuropsychomotor damage in premature infants in the NICU. Methodology: This is a narrative review of the literature, carried out in the Virtual Health Library - BVS, using the descriptors ―newborn, premature newborn, child development, neuropsychomotor, nursing care‖. Studies published between 2020 and 2024 in Portuguese, English and Spanish were included. Opinion articles, literature reviews, texts not available in full, reports and projects were excluded, resulting in the final selection of seven articles. The search period was between January and February 2025. Results: The studies analyzed indicate that strategies such as adequate positioning, environmental control (noise and light), sleep protection, pain relief, and the kangaroo method are effective in promoting the development of newborns. Such practices, when performed by trained professionals, contribute to the reduction of neurological complications and to the improvement of clinical and behavioral indicators. Discussion: Although evidence supports the benefits of these interventions, their application still faces obstacles, such as a lack of human and material resources, weaknesses in ongoing training, and the absence of standardized protocols. The appreciation of Nursing as an active agent in developmental care is essential for the consolidation of evidence-based practices. Conclusion: Nursing strategies applied in the NICU, when systematized and based on scientific knowledge, have the potential to positively impact the neuropsychomotor development of premature newborns. Investing in professional training and institutional support policies is essential for improving neonatal care.