Abstract
PurposeTo evaluate the effect of an oral stimulation program on preterm infants. MethodsPreterm infants (n = 72) were randomly assigned to experimental and control groups. Controls (n = 36) received routine care while the experimental group (n = 36) received oral stimulation in addition to routine care. Postmenstrual age, total intake volume, body weight, the transition time from initiation of oral feeding to full oral feeding and feeding efficiency were calculated. ResultsPostmenstrual age and full oral feeding weight were significantly lower in the experimental group (p < 0.05). The time from initiation of oral feeding to full oral feeding was significantly shorter in the experimental group (p < 0.05) while feeding efficiency was higher in the experimental group (p < 0.05) compared to controls. No significant differences existed in hospital stay length or weight gain rate. ConclusionsAn early oral stimulation program is beneficial in preterm infants.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.