Reducing the Duration to Reach Full Enteral and Oral Feeding Volumes for Very Preterm and Extremely Preterm Infants

Abstract

Background: Enteral and oral feeding are crucial for infants with a gestational age <32 weeks during hospitalization, with potential for improved outcomes through optimized feeding practices. Purpose: To shorten the time to achieve full enteral and oral feeding volumes in infants with a gestational age <32 weeks. Methods: This pre-post-intervention study focused on patients with a gestational age <32 weeks in Shenzhen City, 44 bed NICU. Quality improvement interventions included workflow enhancements, breastfeeding education, and oral motor strategies. Analysis of feeding times and hospital stays was conducted using SPSS software, alongside a provider survey to project feasibility. Results: Statistical significant improvements were seen in full enteral feeding time for infants under 28 weeks gestation and full oral feeding time for those between 28 and 30 weeks. Length of stay did not show significant differences between period. Providers unanimously found the intervention feasible and acceptable. Implications: Quality improvement interventions can expedite achievement of full feeding volumes in preterm infants, with potential for enhanced feeding outcomes.