5. Conclusion
Touch is a therapy and method of communication that transcends cultural differences all over the world. Yakson is a gentle and cautious touching procedure that provides
minimal and safe stimulus suitable for preterm infants. Implications for healthcare practice must be viewed with caution, however, since this was a pilot study utilizing a
small sample. Nonetheless, Yakson could be used as supplemental stimulation for preterm infants as it showed positive effects on their stress hormones and behavioral states in actual NICU environments. The TRNs were able to learn the Yakson protocol by watching one demonstration;
therefore, it would be desirable to educate the neonatal nurses working in NICU on how to provide Yakson to preterm infants. To aid this education, a written guide on the Yakson protocol with figures of each motion could be provided as a textbook.