Level of Education of Students Involved

Undergraduate

Faculty Sponsor

Christina Cavinder

College

College of Nursing & Health Professions (CONHP)

Presentation Type

Poster Presentation

Symposium Date

Spring 4-27-2026

Abstract

Premature infants admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) are exposed to environmental stressors during a critical period of brain development. Increasing evidence links early life NICU stress with heightened risk for adverse neurodevelopmental and mental health outcomes later in life. Among modifiable stressors, light and sound exposure play central roles in physiologic stability and circadian organization.

Studies comparing total darkness and constant light demonstrate no developmental advantage to either extreme. In contrast, cycled lighting that mimics circadian rhythm has been associated with improved weight gain, shorter hospitalization, and increased nocturnal melatonin excretion. The circadian system, regulated by the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN), is structurally developed and light-responsive by approximately 24 weeks of gestation. In utero, circadian entrainment is mediated by maternal hormonal and metabolic cues. Maternal stress, health complications, and prenatal adversity can disrupt these signals and independently affect offspring's mental health risk. Premature birth interrupts maternal circadian regulation during this sensitive developmental window.

In addition to lighting stressors, noxious noise, particularly within the enclosed isolette environment, was identified as a significant contributor to physiologic instability. Elevated sound exposure in the NICU is associated with fluctuations in heart rate, oxygen saturation, and sleep disruption, compounding overall stress burden.

This project evaluates low-stress NICU care interventions focused on circadian-based lighting and environmental noise reduction as neuroprotective strategies to promote physiologic regulation and improve short and long-term outcomes in premature infants.

Biographical Information about Author(s)

We are a dedicated NICU research group composed of Teresa Antoon (Senior), Paige Vucich (Senior), Wilfred Akanbi (Junior), Aleeza Kane (Senior), and Allison Tripp (Freshman), under the guidance of our faculty advisor, Christina Cavinder. As nursing students at varying stages of our education, we bring diverse perspectives and a shared passion for neonatal care. Our research focuses on the impact of environmental factors in the NICU, specifically light and sound. The relationship between NICU stress and the potential correlation with various light and sound exposures in the environment substantially impacts the neonate's well-being. Additionally, we are exploring how circadian rhythm support through cycled lighting has been shown to improve weight gain and overall outcomes. Through this project, we aim to understand better how evidence-based environmental modifications can enhance neonatal development and long-term health.

Download

Share

COinS