I was wondering what protocols other institutions have regarding the frequency of hands on assessments of our ELBW infants? We currently have a standing order for cares every 2-4 hours, and typically our feedings are every three hours. So, our 24-28 week babies on trophic feeds are handled every 3 hours, and if they are NPO they are handled every 4 hours. Occasionally, some nurses are able to make a case for a particularly unstable ELBW infant to be handled q 6 hours. I was wondering if q 6 hour hands on assessments could be a standard for our ELBW infants? Based off what I have researched regarding developmental care of ELBW infants (cluster caregiving, only stimulate when infant is in an awake state etc.), and what I have heard at conferences I have attended, the frequency of our routine assessments is excessive. I haven't been able to find much research based articles addressing nursing assessment frequency specifically though, and I need to have evidence of what is appropriate before presenting to our Local Practice Council. If anyone has feedback, suggestions, or research articles that could support a standard of practice or protocol for nursing assessment frequency I would greatly appreciate it.