Date of this Version

7-31-2025

Document Type

DNP Project

Abstract

Preterm infants in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) face significant neurodevelopmental risks due to immature sensory systems and limited exposure to developmentally appropriate sensory input. The Supporting and Enhancing NICU Sensory Experiences (SENSE) program is an evidence-based initiative designed to structure sensory care in the NICU, providing infants with consistent, age-appropriate exposure to tactile, auditory, visual, olfactory, vestibular, and kinesthetic stimulation. This Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) quality improvement project aimed to implement the SENSE program through targeted education for NICU staff and evaluate its impact on provider knowledge, confidence, and observed parent engagement in sensory-based care.

A total of 15 NICU professionals, including registered nurses, therapists, and clinical care staff, completed matched pre- and post-intervention surveys. Baseline data revealed that only 13% of staff felt confident guiding parents in sensory-based care, and fewer than 30% reported observing consistent use of all five sensory modalities. Common barriers included lack of time, limited training, and low parental involvement. Following a structured educational session using a slide presentation and digital QR-coded resources, all participants (100%) demonstrated improved knowledge of the SENSE program, with a substantial increase in confidence and implementation. Post-intervention, 80% of staff felt moderately or very confident in guiding parents, and 100% reported observing auditory and tactile stimulation during parent-infant interactions. Observations of olfactory and vestibular input rose from 33% and 27% at baseline to 87% and 73%, respectively.

Staff perceived the training materials as helpful, and 93% agreed their educational needs were met. While time constraints and inconsistent parental presence remained concerns, participants expressed strong interest in ongoing mentorship and additional resources to sustain improvements. The results suggest that integrating structured sensory education significantly enhances staff preparedness and fosters improved developmental support for preterm infants. This project reinforces the importance of consistent, interdisciplinary sensory care in NICU settings and highlights the SENSE program as a valuable tool to guide practice change.

Keywords: SENSE program, NICU, sensory-based care, neurodevelopment, preterm infants, staff education, quality improvement, parent engagement, developmental care.

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