Simulation study of gel pillow heat conductance

The gel-filled pillow is a device used to provide a soft surface to support and cradle an infant's head. This study evaluated the use of the Squishon ® 2 gel pillow in an open crib to determine the potential cooling effects on a mannequin infant. This simulation used a thermal mannequin to measure the engery required to keep the mannequin head at 37° C in four conditions. Univariate analysis of variance revealed significant differences among the four conditions. The most effective way of conserving heat was in the hat on the mannequin head while lying on a gel pillow condition. The use of the gel pillow without a hat or insulated barrier caused an increase in energy requirements and kilocalorie usage in this mannequin model. The results of this stimulation study suggest that conductive heat loss from the head while on the gel pillow may increase kilocalorie consumption in the preterm infant. Furthermore, the results of this study support previous findings that the use of a hat on an infant's head conserves energy expenditure and kilocaloaries per day usage.