J Korean Acad Fundam Nurs.  2011 May;18(2):160-167.

Effects of an Oral Stimulation Program on the Transition from Tube to Bottle Feeding in Premature Infants

• Kim H
• Bang KS

Abstract

PURPOSE
The purpose of this study was to identify the effects of an oral stimulation program on premature infant's transition from tube feeding to bottle feeding, decrease in desaturation during feeding, and early discharge.
METHODS
This quasi-experimental study was performed in one neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) of an university hospital. The control group data (n=69) were obtained from June 2008 to May 2009, and the experimental group data (n=67), from June 2009 to May 2010. The oral stimulation program (OSP) was provided daily before feeding for the experimental group until transition to bottle feeding was completed.
RESULTS
The OSP group began bottle feeding earlier and were on complete bottle feeding earlier than control group. Discharge delay due to feeding desaturation was lower than for the control group.
CONCLUSION
The results indicate that OSP for premature infants was helpful in transition from tube feeding to bottle feeding and early discharge and thus can contribute health and development in premature infants.

Keyword

Prematurity; Physical stimulation; Bottle feeding

MeSH Terms

Bottle Feeding
Enteral Nutrition
Humans
Infant, Newborn
Infant, Premature
Intensive Care, Neonatal
Physical Stimulation