Treating liquid expulsion in children with feeding disorders

Area of Science:

• Pediatric feeding disorders
• Swallowing and dysphagia research
• Behavioral interventions in therapy

Background:

• Liquid expulsion during feeding is a common concern in children with feeding disorders.
• Current treatment packages may not fully address liquid expulsion.
• Investigating novel interventions is crucial for improving feeding safety.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of a modified chin prompt for reducing liquid expulsion.
• To assess the impact of reclined seating on liquid expulsion.
• To compare these interventions within a comprehensive treatment package.

Main Methods:

• A case study approach involving 2 children with feeding disorders.
• Implementation of a treatment package including differential reinforcement, nonremoval of the cup, and re-presentation.
• Addition of either a modified chin prompt or reclined seating to the existing package.

Main Results:

• Both the modified chin prompt and reclined seating significantly decreased liquid expulsion in both participants.
• The interventions led to clinically meaningful reductions in expulsion.
• The treatment package, augmented by these strategies, proved effective.

Conclusions:

• Modified chin prompt and reclined seating are effective adjuncts for managing liquid expulsion in pediatric feeding disorders.
• These interventions offer promising strategies for enhancing safe swallowing.
• Further research is warranted to explore underlying mechanisms and optimize application.