HUMANIZATION OF NURSING CARE DURING LABOR KANGAROO METHOD: BENEFITS FOR THE DEVELOPMENT AND RECOVERY OF THE PREMATURE NEWBORN

Abstract

Introduction: Prematurity remains one of the major challenges in neonatal care and is associated with high rates of morbidity and mortality, as well as complications resulting from physiological immaturity. In this context, the Kangaroo Method stands out as a humanized strategy capable of promoting clinical recovery and strengthening family participation in care. Objective: To analyze in the literature the benefits of the Kangaroo Method for the development and recovery of premature newborns, as well as to identify the nurse's role in the adherence and implementation of this practice. Methodology: This is a descriptive bibliographic review with a qualitative approach, conducted in the Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciELO), Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences Literature (LILACS), and Virtual Health Library (VHL) databases. Full-text articles published in Portuguese between 2022 and March 2026 were included, resulting in a final sample of 16 studies. Results and Discussion: The findings demonstrated that the Kangaroo Method contributes to thermal stability, improvement of cardiorespiratory parameters, pain relief, weight gain, encouragement of breastfeeding, and reduction of hospital stay. Benefits related to strengthening the bond between parents and newborns, reducing family anxiety, and promoting humanized neonatal care were also identified. The literature further highlighted the importance of nurses in family guidance, health education, and implementation of the method in neonatal services. Conclusion: The Kangaroo Method is an effective and safe strategy for the recovery of premature newborns, providing clinical, emotional, and social benefits. Furthermore, qualified nursing care is essential to increase adherence to the method and strengthen family-centered neonatal care.