Title : An improved protective barrier for neonatal umbilical cord care: A technical innovation report

In developing countries, approximately 4 million newborns die each year, with about 30% of these deaths due to infections. One of the significant sources of neonatal infections is improper umbilical cord care and contamination in the postnatal period. Inadequate hygiene during and after birth significantly increases the risk of fatal but preventable infections. Throughout history, various agents have been used in umbilical cord care to accelerate the drying process and minimize the risk of infection. These agents include herbal products, olive oil, coconut oil, colostrum, triple dye, povidone-iodine, various antibiotics, sterile water, and alcohol. Umbilical cord care focuses on preventing bacterial colonization and subsequent infections. However, the link between colonization and infection remains poorly understood. Prolonged umbilical cord detachment indicates an increased risk of infection. To address these problems, an innovative protective barrier has been developed for use in neonatal umbilical cord care. This barrier aims to facilitate post-discharge umbilical cord care, support the mother’s newborn care, and reduce preventable neonatal deaths from infection. This study presents a technical innovation report on the design and application features of a Protective Barrier Developed for Neonatal Umbilical Cord Care, which was developed to prevent umbilical cord infections and facilitate care during the neonatal period, and is registered as a utility model with the Turkish Patent and Trademark Office. This report details the product’s technical design, the properties of the materials used, and its clinical application advantages.

Dr. Tuğba Öz is an academic specializing in women's health, midwifery, and neonatal care. She completed her undergraduate studies at Hacettepe University and her postgraduate studies at Marmara University, Institute of Health Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Nursing. Dr. Öz conducts extensive research, particularly in technology-integrated nursing and midwifery care, urogynecology, and the prevention of neonatal infections.
She holds two utility models and one patent registered with the Turkish Patent and Trademark Office. She has publications in international peer-reviewed journals covering a wide range of topics from virtual reality applications to neonatal care models. She currently continues her academic work and teaching activities as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Midwifery, Faculty of Health Sciences, Istanbul Beykent University.