The Wondaleaf Adhesive Pouch Barrier Method for Umbilical Cord Care Among Term Neonates: A Randomized Controlled Study.

AIM This study aimed to compare the effect of using the Wondaleaf adhesive pouch (WLAP) barrier method on umbilical cord care to conventional antiseptic cord care.

METHODS The study was a parallel randomized controlled study that involved a total of 234 term neonates, of which 117 were randomly assigned to both the test and control groups. The WLAP barrier method was used in the test group to protect the umbilical stump of the neonates after delivery. The control group received conventional antiseptic cord care. The cord was monitored daily until the stump detached in both groups and in the test group through the transparent pouch without dressing.

RESULTS The study found no incidence of omphalitis in either the test or control group. There was no statistically significant difference in cord separation time between the groups. However, male neonates in the test group but not the control group demonstrated a statistically significant but marginal delay in cord separation time compared with female neonates.

CONCLUSION The WLAP barrier method of umbilical cord care could successfully replace conventional antiseptic cord care with daily dressings without causing any infection or significant delay in cord separation time. More importantly, it provides a safe, protective and convenient approach to umbilical cord care.