What is the Effectiveness of Oral Sensorimotor Stimulation on Improving the Oral Feeding Skills of Premature Neonates in the NICU?
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Authors
Gaynor, Hope
Logan, Garrett
Webb, Missy
Issue Date
2023-04-21
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Abstract
BACKGROUND: Premature birth affects 1 of every 10 infants born in the United States and contributes to 16% of infant deaths. Infants born prematurely are prone to a number of conditions affecting their health and development, with their stay in the NICU serving as a critical period for medical stabilization. AIM: The purpose of this analysis was to critically appraise various oral sensorimotor interventions implemented in the NICU to determine the effectiveness in promoting the oral feeding outcomes of premature neonates. METHODS: Level I randomized control trials and systematic reviews were included in this analysis if they were peer-reviewed articles published within the last 5 years, had a sample size of at least 50 participants, included oral motor or oral sensorimotor intervention with premature infants in the NICU, and included outcomes related to oral feeding skills or milestones. RESULTS: Level I research completed on oral sensorimotor stimulation has revealed strong evidence supporting the effectiveness of oral sensorimotor stimulation on oral feeding skills and oral motor development of premature neonates in the NICU. Other relevant outcomes included increased weight gain, reduced length of hospital stay, faster transition from tube feeding to oral feeding, increased feeding efficiency, and quicker initiation and longer duration of oral feeding when compared to routine care. Many studies within the systematic reviews and across the randomized controlled trials utilized different protocols regarding frequency and duration, so additional research should be conducted to determine the most effective method of oral sensorimotor stimulation.
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Creighton University
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Copyright is retained by the authors. A non-exclusive distribution right is granted to Creighton University.