title: Cue-Based Feeding in the NICU.
abstract: In NICU settings, caring for neonates born as early as 23 weeks gestation presents unique challenges for caregivers. Traditionally, preterm infants who are learning to orally feed take a predetermined volume of breast milk or formula at scheduled intervals, regardless of their individual ability to coordinate each feeding. Evidence suggests that this volume-driven feeding model should be replaced with a more individualized, developmentally appropriate practice. Evidence from the literature suggests that preterm infants fed via cue-based feeding reach full oral feeding status faster than their volume-feeding counterparts and have shorter lengths of stay in the hospital. Changing practice to infant-driven or cue-based feedings in the hospital setting requires staff education, documentation, and team-based communication.
authors.forename: Cynthia H
authors.initials: CH
authors.lastname: Whetten
mesh_terms: D001942:Breast Feeding; D017028:Caregivers / Q000523:psychology*; D003679:Deglutition / Q000502:physiology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007224:Infant Care / Q000379:methods*; D007227:Infant Nutritional Physiological Phenomena / Q000502:physiology; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D007234:Infant, Premature / Q000502:physiology*; D007363:Intensive Care Units, Neonatal; D008297:Male; D013391:Sucking Behavior / Q000502:physiology*; D013997:Time Factors
keywords: cue-based feeding; feeding advance; infant-driven feeding