Dekker J, et al. - The direct effect of repetitive tactile stimulation on breathing effort of preterm infants at birth was assessed. No significant difference in respiratory minute volume in the repetitive stimulation group, when compared to the standard group, was noted. During repetitive stimulation, although the increase in respiratory effort did not reach significance, oxygenation significantly improved with a lower level of fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO₂) at transport to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. Thereby suggesting that repetitive tactile stimulation could provide a benefit in improving breathing effort at birth.