Abstract
Reduction in sensory inputs is considered one of the most common complications following intensive care unit (ICU) admission. Changes in physiologic parameters are brought about by auditory stimulation, which hastens recovery. So, this study aimed to examine the effect of mother voice on physiological parameters and level of consciousness of patients in pediatric intensive care unit. Research design and setting: A quiz experimental study was carried out from beginning of March 2022 till end of October 2022 in pediatric ICU at Assiut University Children’s Hospital, Egypt. Sample: A purposive sample of 60 patients was assigned into two equal groups: control and intervention groups. Study tools: Two tools were utilized to collect data: physiological parameters assessment sheet, and Glasgow Coma Scale. Results: The mother's voice had a statistically significant effect on oxygen saturation and level of consciousness in the intervention group compared to the control group at the 3rd day with (p.value < 0.05). While there was no statistical significant difference among the study groups as regard heart rate, systolic and diastolic blood pressure from the 1st to the 3rd day. Conclusion: Auditory stimulation utilizing the mother's voice has a significant effect on improving the level of consciousness and oxygen saturation in comatose pediatric patients. Recommendations: Replication of other studies utilizing multimodal stimulation (auditory, visual, and tactile stimulation) can be used either independently or in combination to examine its effect on several additional factors such as mechanical ventilation and length of stay.
Keywords: Mother Voice, Physiological Parameters, Level of Consciousness, Pediatric Intensive Care Unit.