Effect of topical coconut oil on infection rates in extremely premature infants

Abstract

Late-onset sepsis (bloodstream infection) remains one of the most common complications of extremely early birth (more than 3 months before the due date). Skin condition in preterm infants deteriorates quickly after birth and the majority of bloodstream infections are caused by bacteria that reside on the skin. At present there is no available skin care product with proven benefit on skin condition and rates of infection. In this new trial, Neonatal Intensive Care Units of the Australia and New Zealand Neonatal Network will be randomly allocated to either using topical coconut oil or their current standard of skin care for all infants born extremely early to determine if coconut oil may reduce the rate of bloodstream infections. The findings of this trial could be readily translated into clinical practice.