O uso das práticas integrativas e complementares em saúde em unidade de terapia intensiva neonatal: revisão de escopo

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Newborns admitted in the neonatal ICU are exposed to procedures and manipulations that cause constant painful stimulation and psychological stress. In this context, considering the imperative of comprehensive healthcare and the biopsychosocial-spiritual framework that should underpin human care, it is posited that Integrative and Complementary Practices may contribute to the mitigation of such phenomenon. OBJECTIVE: To map the evidence of the use of Integrative and Complementary Health Practices in Neonatal Intensive Care Units. METHOD: Scoping review, developed based on the Joanna Briggs Institute protocol and the PRISMA-ScR guide, between January and April 2025, with 102 studies initially identified. After applying inclusion, exclusion and duplicate removal criteria, 16 studies comprised the final sample. RESULTS: Most of the articles produced were published predominantly between 2017 and 2024. The most used PICs were music therapy and massage or therapeutic touch. CONCLUSIONS: The Integrative and complementary practices (ICPs) have positive effects on neonates and contribute to the stabilization of vital signs, pain relief, improved sleep, and the strengthening of the emotional bond between the newborn and their caregivers. However, the implementation process still faces obstacles such as the shortage of trained professionals, the lack of institutionalized protocols, and the need for stronger scientific evidence for some therapeutic modalities.