Effect of Oromotor Stimulation on Sucking and Feeding Performance of Preterm Neonates Admitted in Neonatal Care Unit of Selected Hospital, West Bengal

Abstract

Feeding problem remains a common problem among preterm neonates. An experimental study was undertaken to assess the effect of oromotor stimulation on feeding and sucking performance of preterm neonates admitted in selected hospital, west Bengal. Quasi experimental time series design was adopted. From the population of preterm neonates 60 samples (30 in experimental group and 30 in control group) were selected by non-probability purposive sampling. After selection, initially the baseline data was collected using a record analysis proforma. On the 1st day sucking and feeding performance scoring was done before giving the oromotor stimulation to ascertain the homogeneity of the experimental and control group. After that in two consecutive feeding, oromotor stimulation was given to the neonates in experimental group before 15 minutes of the feeding. The intervention was given to the neonates in experimental group for the next two days, twice only in two consecutive feeding. Neonates in control group received routine care. Sucking and feeding performance scoring was done in both groups using a standardized non-nutritive sucking scoring scale and a validated and reliable early feeding performance scale. The result showed that there is significant difference in sucking performance (t=3.60, p<0.05) and feeding performance (t=3.78, p<0.05) among experimental and control group in final observation. It can be concluded that oromotor stimulation is effective to improve the feeding and sucking abilities of preterm neonates. In the neonatal care units, nurses can provide oromotor stimulation to improve feeding and sucking abilities of the preterm neonates. Keywords: Feeding, Sucking, Performance, Preterm, Oromotor stimulation, Neonates, Preterm neonates.