Based on this review,
very preterm infants in an active or distress state will
likely benefit more than infants who are resting
quietly and should otherwise not be disturbed.52
Therefore, comforting touch delivery to at-risk infants
needs to be individualized, mindful, and infantdriven.
Neonatal care providers and parents need to
be trained to astutely observe each infant’s cues to
determine the most appropriate quality and quantity
of comforting touch, while respecting the potential
for providing sensory overstimulation.