Salivary cortisol measurements in sick infants : a feasible and objective method of measuring stress?

  • Denise Harrison
  • , Linda Johnston
  • , Kaye Spence
  • , Donna Gillies
  • , Sue Nagy

Research output: Contribution to journalArticle

10 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Purpose: to investigate the utility of salivary cortisol as an objective measure of stress in sick infants. Participants: One hundred and forty four infants nursed in two neonatal intensive care units in two childrenââ"šÂ¬Ã¢"žÂ¢s hospitals in Australia. Design: A prospective observational cohort study. Methods: Infantsââ"šÂ¬Ã¢"žÂ¢ saliva was collected using a 3 mL syringe attached to a shortened size 8 FG feeding tube. Salivary cortisol levels were measured using ELISA and examined for associations with potential environmental stressors in the NICU. Main outcome measures: 1. collection of saliva in sufficient volumes for analysis, 2. relationship between salivary cortisol levels and environmental factors associated with stress.
Original languageEnglish
Number of pages8
JournalJournal of Neonatal Nursing : JNN
Publication statusPublished - 2005

Keywords

  • excretion
  • hydrocortisone
  • infants
  • neonatal intensive care
  • pediatric nursing
  • stress (psychology)

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Salivary cortisol measurements in sick infants : a feasible and objective method of measuring stress?'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this