What is C.A.L.M.S.?
C.A.L.M.S. stands for Comfort, Activity, Lighting, Movement, and Sound/Smell. It is a holistic approach to support the preterm infant and their developing neurological system. C.A.L.M.S helps nurses and parents work together to help the preterm or sick baby develop and recover in a positive healing environment.
Why is C.A.L.M.S. important?
Research has shown that a program like C.A.L.M.S. can have a positive effect on the parents and baby, including:
- Shorter hospital stay
- Increased parent satisfaction
- Reduced number of complications for baby
- Better neuro-developmental outcomes for baby
What does C.A.L.M.S. look like for a parent?
Education will start with parents as soon as the baby is admitted to the NICU. Babies will be classified into one of four C.A.L.M.S. categories.
- First 72 hours
- Critical — 4B
- Stable — 4A
- Feeder and Grower — 3A and 2A
A colored card will be outside of each infants room to classify what category the infant is in related to C.A.L.M.S.
How can the parent become involved?
Each category has specific ways a parent can be involved in and help participate in your child’s care. Your baby’s nurse will teach you how to participate and check off each skill that is taught. You should keep the sheet and continue to check off new skill as infant progresses through the four categories.
