Feeding methods for the preterm infant.

C L Berseth

doi:10.1053/siny.2001.0062

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Feeding methods for the preterm infant.

C L Berseth

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Abstract

As more very immature preterm infants survive, provision of enteral feedings has become a major focus of concern. Although many aspects of gastrointestinal function are immature in the preterm infant, the ability of the preterm neonate to process and absorb enteral nutrients appears to be adequate enough to sustain nutritional needs. Few prospective randomized trials have compared the efficacy of different feeding methods. However, some studies have compared differing routes of feeding, rates of feeding, and volume of feeding. The ability to successfully digest enteral feedings may be inhibited or enhanced by pharmacological agents. The need to modify a feeding strategy can be monitored by tracking several measurements prospectively. Finally, there is a need to assess ongoing dietary needs of preterm infants for discharge planning.

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Digestion Digestive System Physiological Phenomena Drug Interactions Enteral Nutrition Humans Infant Food Infant, Newborn Infant, Premature Intestinal Absorption Milk, Human Patient Discharge Sucking Behavior Journal Article Review

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C L Berseth. 2001. Feeding methods for the preterm infant.. https://doi.org/10.1053/siny.2001.0062

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