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Feeding efficiency of premature neonates
J Case-Smith1, P Cooper, V Scala
1Nisonger Center, Ohio State University, Columbus 43210.
Summary
The revised Neonatal Oral Motor Assessment Scale (NOMAS) effectively distinguishes efficient from inefficient feeders among premature infants. Inefficient feeders showed disorganized sucking patterns and longer pauses, often linked to breathing.
Area of Science:
- Neonatology
- Pediatric feeding disorders
- Oral motor assessment
Background:
- Premature neonates often exhibit feeding difficulties.
- Accurate assessment of oral motor skills is crucial for early intervention.
- The Neonatal Oral Motor Assessment Scale (NOMAS) is a tool used for this purpose.
Purpose of the Study:
- To validate the revised NOMAS in differentiating efficient and inefficient feeders in high-risk premature neonates.
- To identify specific oral motor behaviors distinguishing these two feeding groups.
Main Methods:
- The revised NOMAS was used to assess nutritive and nonnutritive sucking.
- Twenty-six high-risk premature neonates were categorized based on liquid consumption in 5 minutes.
- Oral motor behaviors were analyzed for significant differences between groups.
Main Results:
- Revised NOMAS scores for both nutritive and nonnutritive sucking were significantly higher in efficient feeders.
- The scale accurately classified neonates as efficient or inefficient feeders.
- Lack of rhythm, disorganized jaw/tongue movements, and prolonged pauses (>6 sec) were linked to inefficient feeding.
Conclusions:
- The revised NOMAS is a valid tool for assessing feeding efficiency in premature neonates.
- Specific oral motor deficits, potentially related to respiratory patterns, characterize inefficient feeders.
- Findings support the use of the revised NOMAS for targeted interventions.