The role of nurses in caring for low birth weight newborns (Kangaroo Method)

Abstract

Introduction: The Kangaroo Method is a neonatal care strategy focused on skin-to-skin contact between low birth weight newborns and their parents, promoting clinical and emotional benefits and strengthening the bond between them. Objective: To analyse the relevance of nurses' role in caring for low birth weight newborns through the Kangaroo Method, highlighting its impact on the health and well-being of the newborn and their family. Method: This is an integrative literature review with a qualitative approach, based on scientific studies published between 2020 and 2025, available in Portuguese or English, with free access and full text. The search was conducted in the LILACS, SciELO, and BDENF databases, using the following descriptors: “Nursing Care,” “Low Weight,” “Neonatal Nursing,” “Kangaroo Method,” and “Low Birth Weight Newborn.” Inclusion and exclusion criteria were defined, and the extracted data were analysed systematically. Results: The final sample of the review comprised 13 articles that met the established criteria. It was found that the role of nurses in the Kangaroo Method ranges from the early identification of eligible newborns to continuous support for the family, with actions focused on technical care, reception and health education. There was a predominance of studies with a descriptive qualitative approach and a scarcity of recent publications in the area, highlighting the need to encourage research. Weaknesses were also identified in the systematic implementation of the Nursing Care Systematisation (SAE), which may compromise the individualisation and effectiveness of care. Conclusion: The role of nurses in caring for low birth weight newborns through the Kangaroo Method is fundamental to providing comprehensive, safe care focused on family participation. Skin-to-skin contact results in clinical and emotional benefits for the newborn, contributing to their recovery and strengthening the emotional bond with their parents.