The Zaky

Y.S.P. Health Resources

A product that will replace swaddling and change the health of
premature babies in the NICU and around the world.

Yessica Garcia, NICU RN

Philippa Machalicek, NICU RN
Shiann Ashbrook, NICU RN

23 November 2015

Table of Contents
List of Illustrations

ii

Abstract

iii

Introduction

The Zaky

Benefits of the Zaky

The Features of the Zaky

Benefits to the parents

Cost of the Zaky

Negative effects of swaddling

Conclusion

Glossary

Works Cited

Appendix

List of Illustrations
Figure
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

Page
Single pair of Zakys in purple1
Premature baby with green and white Zaky2
Multi-color Zakys..3
Infant with DDH.....5
Premature baby with purple Zakys6

Abstract
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The issue we are currently experiencing in Y.S.P. Health Resources is that we are
using the outdated method of swaddling to provide comfort and support to newborn
babies. Swaddling is a problem because it can be done improperly and can cause injuries
like Developmental Dislocation (Dysplasia) of the Hips. Swaddling is also difficult to
accomplish with the number of machines the babies are hooked up to. The solution to
swaddling would be to replace this method with the use of the Zaky. The Zaky would
help with the overall health and development of the babies as well providing comfort to
the parents.

Introduction
The reason for this proposal is to push the replacement of the traditional method
of swaddling with the Zaky. We want to replace swaddling with the Zaky because it is a
much more effective, safe way of providing comfort and support to the babies. The issue
we are currently having is that swaddling is causing injuries like DDH and it has been a
long time complication to properly swaddle the babies with the number of machines they
may be hooked up to. When the babies are too tightly wrapped it can cause discomfort as
well as displacement in one or both of the babies hips which causes long term
complications.
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Figure 1. Single pair of purple Zakys.

The

CMS, Zendrop. Zaky Hand Lilac . 2014. 23

November 2015.

Zaky
The Zaky is a soft but heavy pillow that imitates the look, feel, weight, scent,
and warmth of the parents hand and forearm. It assures proper positioning, helps with
pain management and sleep, provides a sense of protection, and assists with the physical
and psychological development of the child (Johnson, Zaky). This is important because
premature babies need a lot of extra support and help to remain in one position so that
they do not accidentally pull an IV or an oxygen tube off of themselves. The Zaky is now
being used in some Australian hospitals including the Royal North Shore Hospital, the
Royal Hobart Hospital, the Mercy Hospital for women, the Mater Mothers Hospital, and
the Central Coast Local Health Hospital (Johnson, Zaky information).). In our own
experience we have seen the Zaky being used once in the Waco Health Harris Hospital
NICU. The nurses were using the Zaky to comfort and position a premature baby because
it was unable to be held and comforted by its mother. This is when we decided that it
would beneficial for Y.S.P.s NICU to use the Zaky.

Figure 2. Premature baby with green and white Zaky.

Benefits of the

Design, Nurtered by. The Zaky. 2001-2015. 11

November 2015.

Zaky

The Zaky promotes the overall health and wellbeing of premature babies by
lowering stress and anxiety levels. Dr. Fernando Moya said, The way to diminish the
stress, the anxiety, and the restlessness of babies is preferably by positioning them so that
they are comfortable and feel secure. Babies seem to enjoy very much the fact that we are
providing boundaries for them, they are able to keep an adequate position, and the Zaky
is a very soft touch (Johnson, Health Care). The Zaky has many other beneficial aspects
like simulating the size and weight of a parents hand and touch, giving reassurance to the
babies and the parents when the parents have to leave their baby, as well as helping the
babies transition into different environments. It can also be heated providing warmth in
and out of the hospitals (Johnson, Benefits). The Zaky is also a dual purpose device that
has been used in multiple other places such as nursing homes and child care centers to
provide a sense of a loved ones being near as well as providing a sense of comfort to the
children and adults (Johnson, Older Children).

Features of the Zaky

The Zaky has many features making it versatile and efficient. It is personalized to
fit each babys needs. Depending on the weight and condition of the baby the amount of
filling can be determined to adequately comfort the and protect the baby (Johnson,
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Benefits). The Zaky also provides warmth and comfort to the premature babies. It is able
to be heated in a warmer or dryer and is made of a microfleece that is very soft and
breathable (Johnson, Benefits). Another reason the Zaky is a good investment is because
it is reusable. You are able to hand or machine wash the Zaky without disassembling it,
and its durable material makes it last long after the baby has left the NICU (Johnson,
Benefits). The Zaky is also fashionable coming in many different colors as seen in figure
3. You can get a Zaky in pink, blue, green, white, purple, or tan.

Figure 3. Multi-color Zakys.

Design, Nurtered by. The Zaky. 2001-2015. 11
November 2015.

Parents and the Zaky

The Zaky is just as beneficial to the parents in the NICU as it is to the babies. It
keeps the parents from having to try to swaddle a baby that is connected to multiple
machines and helps reduce their feelings of helplessness by allowing them to wrap their
baby with the arms of the Zaky. Parent Shambry Emerok said, My son is a preemie, and
has had a Zaky from the very beginning. Next to mommy, it has been his best friend. If
he ever gets upset, the nurses just cuddle him with the Zaky and he calms right down. It
also makes me feel so much better when I have to leave him because I know that he can
still feel safe and comforted. I absolutely love the Zaky! (Design, Testimonials). The
Zaky will help reduce the lack of maternal feeling, irritability, hostility, aggressive
impulses, rejection of their child, and thoughts of harming or even killing their baby (N,
Smith). All of these symptoms can be caused by postpartum depression and the lack of
connectivity between a mother and her baby. The Zaky gives the parents of premature

babies the feeling of being able to help and comfort their baby even when they cant do
much reducing the possibility of depression.

Cost of the Zaky

The Zaky can be purchased in singles, as pairs, or in bulk. A single Zaky can be
purchased for $120.00, a pair can be purchased for $180.00, and bulk pricing is
discounted depending on the quantity ordered. There is also a donation program in
Australia where an individual can buy a Zaky for $59.95 and that Zaky will be donated to
a hospital so the patients will not have to pay for them (Johnson, Hospital donation). YSP
could also participate in a donation program similar to the one in Australia. The Zaky can
virtually replace all developmentally supportive devices (Johnson, What are the Zakys).
This was proven when the Zaky was put to test against multiple other devices, which is
shown on the Differences between the Zakys and other Devices chart located in the
Appendix on pages 8 through 19. In the survey about the Zaky that we passed out to
random people, we found that most people liked the idea of using the Zaky in and out of
the hospital, but it was too expensive. These surveys are located on pages 20 through 26
of the Appendix. While $180.00 for a pair of Zanys may seem like a lot, it is actually
cheaper than what you would be paying for are of the individual therapeutic positioning
devises used in the NICU or at home. At minimum you would be spending approximately
$185.00 on your baby and at max you would be spending $300.00. This is a total savings
ranging from $5.00 to $115.00. These results are shown in the Appendix page 8, where it
shows how the Zaky saves money by replacing various products.

Swaddling
5

At YSP Health Resources we are currently using the method of swaddling to provide
comfort and security to the babies. This is also the most common method used by parents
outside of the hospital. Although swaddling is a traditional method that has been used for
centuries, it puts your baby at risk for DDH or Developmental Dysplasia of the hip
(Post). Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon Nicholas Clarke
said, Swaddling should not be employed in my view as
there is no health benefit but a risk for adverse
consequences of the growing and often immature hips
(Post). Although, if done correctly, swaddling can
provide comfort and support to a baby, the Zaky is still
more beneficial. It has many more features than an

Figure 4. Infant with DDH.

ordinary blanket and has a much smaller risk or causing

Institute, International Hip

Dysplasia. Kalynne's
Story. 2012. 23
November 2015.

harm to a child while being used. It is easier for the

parents and nurses to be able to correctly position the

baby with the Zaky and it provides much more support. Parents who do decide to
swaddle their babies need to be sure it is done correctly. The baby needs to be able to
fully stretch out its legs and the wrap should be tight at the top and loose at the bottom.
Tight swaddling around the hips can lead to delayed walking and hip abnormalities
(Post).

Conclusion
After completing our research, we have concluded that the Zaky is the best
product to use here at Y.S.P. Health Resources. The Zaky has been proven to increase the
health and development of premature babies. It also helps the parents through this very
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difficult time. By adopting the Zaky we will prevent injuries to the premature babies,
while providing comfort, security, and care. The number one goal at Y.S.P. Health
Resources is to guarantee the comfort and well-being of all our patients and their
families, and the Zaky will help us further accomplish this goal.

Figure 5. Premature baby with purple Zakys.

ABC Inc., KGO-TV San Francisco. OPRAH
AWARDS $25K GRANT TO MOTHER WHO
INVENTED 'ZAKY'. 2015. 23 November
2015.

Glossary
Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip (DDH): Where the hip is dislocated in the first few
months of life
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NICU: Neonatal Intensive Care Unit

Swaddling: A method of wrapping a child with cloth or a blanket
Zaky: hand and arm shaped pillow

Works Cited
Design, Nurtered by. Testimonials by Families. 2001-2015. 11 November
2015.

Design, Nurtered by. What are the Zakys, Use, NICU Process Standard,
Comparison. 2001-2015. 11 November 2015.
Johnson, Chez. Benefits and Features. 2007-2015.
<http://www.thezaky.net.au/>.
Johnson, Chez. Hospital Information. 2007-2015.
<http://www.thezaky.net.au/>.
Johnson, Chez. Health Care Professionals. 2007-2015.
<http://www.thezaky.net.au/>.
Johnson, Chez. International Sales. 2007-2015. <http://www.thezaky.net.au/>.
Johnson, Chez. Older Children and Adults. 2007-2015.
<http://www.thezaky.net.au/>.
Johnson, Chez. What Experts Say in America. 2007-2015.
<http://www.thezaky.net.au/>.
Johnson, Chez. Zaky Information. 2007-2015. <http://www.thezaky.net.au/>.
Markel, Mike. Technical Communications. Boston, New york: Bedford/St.
Martins, 2015.
N, Smith. Parent-Newborn Bonding: Evaluating and Encouraging. 30 January
2015. 11 November 2015.
Post, The Bangkok. The Pros and Cons of Swaddling Your Child. 29 October
2013. 28 October 2015.
Post, The Bangkok.Parents who Swaddle Their Baby Should Ensure Their Hips.
29 October 2013. 28 October 2015.

Appendix

The Zaky saves you money by replacing many other products:

Why buy one product for each purpose if the Zaky covers them all?
Here is what you could buy if you have a product for each purpose:
-

positioning or nesting ($20 - $75)

bonding aid ($15 - $25)
therapeutic hold ($35 - $65)
a safety positioning product for the car seat, stroller, etc ($25-$50)
a other transitional item that, in cases, are unsafe for the baby (i.e, beany
babies(R) and other stuffed animals are for children 3 years or more ($10-$50)
- a products that can be warmed for comfort (i.e, colic babies, etc.) ($20)
- a pillow for positioning the baby while breast-feeding laying down ($35)
- a positioning aid for infant massage ($25)
And the Zaky is an extension of you - you are involved with your baby even when someone
else is caring for him/her.

Difference Between the Zakys and Other

Devices
The Zakys virtually replace all developmentally supportive devices.
All these devices (*) are made to provide support when the baby is on the
bed/incubator. For support when the baby is out of the bed in Kangaroo Care, visit
the Kangaroo Zak
Manufacturer (*)
Product Name (*)
# of item Codes per Product
Purpose
When is it used?

Positioner
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Product Name:
Full Body Support
Positioner For Prone
Positioner For Supine
Positioner For Sidelying
Positioner For Nesting
Positioner For Under The Baby
Positioner For Over The Baby
Positioner For Side of The Baby
Positioner For Away from The Baby (i.e., Help Holding Equipment, etc)

Evidence-Based Device for Developmental Care

Product Name:
Any Clinical Evidence?
Clinical Evidence That Suggests Significant Decrease Of Apnea / Bradycardia (24-38 Weekers)
Clinical Evidence That Suggests Significant Increase Of Self-Regulation In NICU (24-38 Weekers)

Ergonomic Design
Product Name:
Designed by a PhD in Ergonomics Engineering
3+ Years Of Ergonomics Engineering Research And Development Before Introducing to Market
Provides Constant Level Of Care
Same Universal Size Provides Individualized Care From Birth To 12 Months and beyond
(no need S/M/L/XL or Light/Medium/Heavy, etc.)
One Universal Weight That Can Be Adjusted Depending Of The Size Or Condition Of The Baby
May Be Used With Other Developmental Care Devices

Continuity and Constant Level of Care: Same and Only Device Needed To Support Every Developmental Stage
Containment Without Restraining Movement
Containment Without Excessive Baby Manipulation
Instant View Of The Baby's Entire Body (From Head To Toes)
Immediate Access To The Baby With Minimal Disruption
Converts To A Pediatric Bolster (Firm Yet Flexible Roll for Back Support)
Familiar Shape and Design For The Parents
Extra Pair Of Hands for Parents and Staf
No Metal Rods, Straps or Wings That May Create Pressure Points
Adjust The Firmness Of The Device To Provide Extra Support
Made To Be Warmed In Dryer Or Towel Warmer
Quiet Handling (No Velcro Or Noisy)
Support and Containment Without Restraining Movement
Designed To Work Standalone
Efective Quality Control for Positioning

Constant Level Of Care - Individualized Developmental Care

Product Name:
Everyday Use Regardless Of The Caregiver in Shift

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Same Device to Support Individualized and Comprehensive Developmental Care Regardless Of Baby's Size, M
NIDCAP friendly (Recommended by International NIDCAP Trainers to Provide Individualized Care)

Family-Centered Care
Product Name:
Parental Involvement - Made For Parents To Easily Learn How To Use
Made To Encourage Parental Learning and Intervention
Made To Simulate Parental Intervention
Made To Help Calm The Baby And Mother During Transport And Admission
Helps Reduce Parents' Separation Anxiety and Stress
Made to Keep the Scent Of Both Parents
Bonding Aid
Made To Be An Extension Of The Parent That Stays With The Baby
Attachment Aid
Provides Neck Support For The Parent during Kangaroo Care (While Scenting Them)
Designed To Comfort Parents During Baby's End-Of-Life / Palliative Care
Made So Parents Continue Efective Developmental Care After Hospital Discharge

Multi-Functional, Multi-Purpose
Product Name:
Transitional Item
Efective with Narcotic-Dependent Infants
Assists Baby's Upright Position in Car Seats, Bouncy Seats, Strollers, Etc.
Comforting and Non-Pharmacological Pain Management Device
Made For Home And Hospital Use
Soothing/Therapeutic Item

Efective Staf and Parent Training

Product Name:
Intuitive - Very Short Learning Curve By Professionals
Intuitive - Very Easy for Professionals to Teach Parents How To Use
Parents Continue Developmental Care With The Same Product At Home After Proper Training
Training Concentrated On Developmental Stage Of The Baby Not On How To Use What Combination Of Tools

Infection Control
Product Name:
Washable Full or Parts
Includes Washing Bag
No Disassembly Required

Management and Supply Chain

Product Name:
Reduced and Minimized Inventory and Storage Space Needed
Always the right size device is available
Simplified Ordering Management, Supply Chain
Simplified Training and Quality Control
More Accurate Forecasting, Planning, Procurement and Logistics

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Multifunctional, Multipurpose Device Used By Every Patient in the NICU To Provide Comprehensive, Evidence
(*)=Company and product names are Registered Marks of each individual company. Nurtured by
Design is independent from any other company listed in this comparison. This comparison is for
information only.

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