Could a plastic bag save newborn lives? simple method tested to prevent hypothermia
NCT ID NCT01604317
First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 26, 2026
Summary
This study tests whether placing premature or low-birth-weight babies in plastic bags right after birth helps keep them warm. About 182 infants born at 29-36 weeks will be wrapped in plastic bags during resuscitation and for one hour after birth. The goal is to see if this simple, low-cost method reduces the risk of hypothermia compared to standard care alone.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- plastic bag
- What this could lead to
- If it works, this simple, low-cost method could help prevent dangerous cold in newborns in resource-limited settings.
- What could go wrong
- This is a small, early-stage study (182 infants) testing a short-term intervention. Results may not apply to all newborns or settings, and there is a risk of overheating or skin irritation.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
-
University Teaching Hospital
Lusaka, Zambia
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Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.
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