| Learning Objective #1: Describe variables that are related to oral feeding readiness in the preterm infant | |||
| Learning Objective #2: Examine the relationships among the variables in predicting oral feeding readiness, success, and progression in the preterm infant |
OBJECTIVE: To investigate the relationship between the maturation, disease status and the initiation and acquisition of full bottle feeding in EEB preterm infants during the transition to bottle feeding and prior to discharge.
METHOD: This secondary analysis, utilized data collected in a non-experimental repeated measures design, from 52 EEB preterm infants recruited using a sample of convenience. Infant physiologic variables and behavioral state were observed weekly for five weeks prior to the beginning of bottle feedings. Once bottle feeding was initiated, infants were observed at three intervals with a nutritive sucking protocol. State data were collected using the Anderson Behavioral State Scale. Physiologic indicators and indicators of nutritive sucking competence were collected continuously with physiologic monitoring and the Krons Nutritive Sucking Apparatus. Data analysis for the current research included demographics, correlations and multiple regressions.
RESULTS: Infant maturation as measured by gestational age and post-conceptional age is significantly correlated with initiation of feeding (p = .05). Infant disease status as measured by morbidity scoring at day 7 of life is also correlated with initiation of feeding. Progression to full feeding however, was not as well correlated with these two parameters (p = .08). This research provided increased understanding of the presentation of feeding readiness in EEB infants. Certainly, information about the relationship between maturation, disease status and feeding readiness/progression is pivotal to the practitioners' decision-making and will facilitate the appropriate initiation and successful acquisition of feeding/discharge.