Diluted formula for beginning the feeding of premature infants.
To evaluate whether there is a preferable mode of advancing feedings in premature infants, 50 infants with birth weights of less than 1500 g were randomized into two groups. Twenty-eight infants were begun on a regimen of full-strength (FS) formula (84 J/30 mL [20 cal/oz]), and the volume of formula was advanced on a daily basis. Twenty-two infants received half-strength formula (equal parts, 84 J/30 mL [20 cal/oz] formula and water) and were advanced at twice the volume per feeding as the FS group. The groups were compared with respect to the amount of time needed to reach an enteral energy intake of 420 J (100 cal)/kg. The half-strength feeding group had fewer residuals and reached the indicated energy intake level earlier than infants in the FS group.
Currao
W J
WJ
Department of Pediatrics, University of Rochester (NY) School of Medicine.
Cox
C
C
Shapiro
D L
DL
D002149:Energy Intake; D005865:Gestational Age; D006801:Humans; D007225:Infant Food; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D007234:Infant, Premature; D007441:Intubation, Gastrointestinal