The effect of tub bathing on stress, comfort, and physiological parameters in newborns

Purpose This study aimed to investigate the effects of tub bathing on stress levels, comfort, and physiological parameters in newborns undergoing phototherapy. Methods A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 62 newborns receiving phototherapy in a university hospital neonatal intensive care unit (June 2024–June 2025). Infants were randomized to an experimental (tub bathing) or a control group. Physiological parameters, stress (Neonatal Stress Scale), and comfort (Neonatal Comfort Behavior Scale) were assessed at three time points: before, 15 min after initiation, and 15 min before completion of phototherapy. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 30.0. Results There were significant differences between the groups in terms of sex ( p = .005, φ = 0.35) and gestational week ( p = .045, φ = 0.36). Respiratory rate, heart rate, and oxygen saturation values in the experimental group were statistically higher compared with the control group ( p < .001, Cohen's d = 1.37–1.85). Mean scores of the Neonatal Stress Scale and Neonatal Comfort Behavior Scale revealed a significant decrease in stress and a significant increase in comfort in the experimental group (p < .001, Cohen's d > 1.40). The post-hoc power analysis indicated a test power of 1.00. Conclusion Tub bathing reduces stress levels, enhances comfort, and positively affects physiological parameters in newborns undergoing phototherapy. Therefore, it is recommended that nurses incorporate tub bathing as a safe and feasible nursing practice in neonatal care. Implications to practice Tub bathing is recommended as a standardized intervention to enhance physiological comfort in infants undergoing phototherapy. Additionally, involving parents in this process strengthens family-centered care and emotional bonding in the neonatal setting. © 2026 Elsevier Inc.