Neonatal network : NN
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Infant massage therapy is an inexpensive tool that should be utilized as part of the developmental care of the preterm infant. Nurses have been hesitant to begin massage therapy for fear of overstimulating the infant and because there has been insufficient research to prove its safety. ⋯ Parents of the preterm infant also benefit because infant massage enhances bonding with their child and increases confidence in their parenting skills. This article discusses the benefits and risks of massage for preterm infants and their families and explains how to implement massage therapy in the neonatal intensive care setting.