A Randomized Study of 3 Umbilical Cord Care Regimens at Home in Thai Neonates: Comparison of Time to Umbilical Cord Separation, Parental Satisfaction and Bacterial Colonization
Sangkae Chamnanvanakij, MD*, Kesanee Decharachakul, MD*, Phonphat Rasamimaree, MD*, Nirun Vanprapar, MD*
Affiliation : * Department of Pediatrics, Phramongkutklao Hospital
Objective : To compare time to cord separation, parental satisfaction and bacterial colonization, among 3
regimens of cord care at home.
Study
Design : Randomized controlled trial.
Materials and Methods : Term infants were randomly assigned based on cord care regimens at home: 1) triple
dye, 2) alcohol, and 3) no antiseptic agent. Timing of cord separation, and parental satisfaction were
evaluated during the first month of age.
Results : 185 infants were recruited. Time to cord separation in infants of group 1 was significantly longer
than in group 2 (p = 0.036) and group 3 (p = 0.003). The satisfaction scores of group 1 were significantly
lower than those of group 2 and group 3. 180 culture specimens were performed and positive in all but none
had omphalitis.
Conclusion : Triple dye delayed time to cord separation and was less satisfactory. The authors conclude that
using alcohol or dry clean could be alternative ways of umbilical cord care at home.
Keywords : Umbilical cord care, Time to cord separation, Triple dye, Alcohol, Clean cord care
