Neonatal Nutrition and Feeding Flashcards

The preferred enteral nutrition for preterm infants in the NICU is:

Answer: Human breast milk (mother's own milk or pasteurized donor milk)

Human milk reduces NEC risk, improves immune function, and supports neurodevelopment; it is the gold standard for preterm nutrition.

Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is most commonly seen in:

Answer: Preterm infants under 32 weeks gestation

NEC primarily affects preterm infants whose immature gut mucosa is susceptible to ischemia and bacterial overgrowth.

Which sign is an early indicator of feeding intolerance in a tube-fed neonate?

Answer: Increasing gastric residuals, abdominal distension, or emesis

Increasing gastric residuals, abdominal distension, and vomiting are early signs of feeding intolerance requiring reassessment of feeding plan.

Kangaroo mother care (skin-to-skin) has been shown to:

Answer: Improve breastfeeding rates, stabilize vital signs, and improve neurodevelopmental outcomes

Kangaroo care provides warmth, promotes bonding, increases milk production, and improves cardiovascular stability in NICU infants.

Human milk fortifier (HMF) is added to breast milk for preterm infants because:

Answer: Breast milk alone does not meet the elevated protein, calcium, and phosphorus needs of preterm infants

Preterm infants have higher nutrient requirements for growth; HMF supplements protein, minerals, and vitamins to optimize preterm bone and growth outcomes.

The sucking-swallowing-breathing coordination necessary for safe oral feeding typically matures at approximately:

Answer: 33–35 weeks postmenstrual age

Coordinated sucking, swallowing, and breathing for safe oral feeding develops between 33–35 weeks PMA in most preterm infants.