Abstract
This study was performed to evaluate possible immediate physiological and behavioural changes during non-nutritive sucking bursts(NNSBs) in neonates(n.).26 n. in room air and without severe perinatal complications(Minde s<4) were included in the study(G.A.wk 34±3; B.W. 2030±590; Apgar s. 5m. 8.6±1). Behavioural states(B.S.), transcutaneous oxygen tension (TcPO2), heart rate(H.R.), respiratory rate(f.)and NNSBs were monitored during 3m. of nonnutritive sucking opportunity offered to n. by a pacifier. Data were sampled at 10′ intervals.N. sucked 58±35 per cent of the time available for sucking. Variables were compared between periods without and with NNSBs(p.t Tests).B.S. went from 2.7±0.8 to 2.5±0.5(n.s.), TcPO2 from 71±12 to 70±10(n.s.),H.R. from 139±3 to 138±12(n.s.). Only f. increased from 42±11 to 46±13 (p<.05). Our data document an immediate interaction between NNSBs and respiratory rate suggesting an effect on the central respiratory control mechanism. Moreover, they indicate that the decrease in respiratory rate reported in a similar group of neonates during feeding should not be Interpreted as an effect of sucking per se.
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