Study note
PediatricsNewborn Care

Feeding goals and method selection in low-birth-weight infants

THE CONTEXT
Low-birth-weight infants may initially need alternatives to direct breastfeeding because of feeding limitations.

Feeding goal and initial difficulties

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Gut immaturity contributes to frequent feed intolerance.
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Direct and exclusive breastfeeding is the goal for all low-birth-weight infants.
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Many infants cannot accept breastfeeding during the initial few days and need spoon, paladai, or gastric tube (gavage) feeding.
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Some neonates requiring intravenous (IV) fluids may not receive enteral feeding.

Choosing a feeding method

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The appropriate method depends on whether the infant is sick and on the infant's feeding ability.
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Feeding ability is determined by gestation and birth weight.
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