Empowering NICU Parents Podcast A Review of Cue-Based Feeding in the NICU

For infants in the NICU, especially those born prematurely, breast or bottle feeding effectively can oftentimes be a challenge. Maturational and developmental issues impact a premature infant’s ability to adequately coordinate their sucking, swallowing, and breathing. Yet, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), attainment of adequate oral feedings that fully support growth without physiologic instability is a skill that needs to be fully established prior to an infant’s discharge from the NICU.
But, what is the best way to achieve full oral feedings in a developmentally supportive manner? For this podcast, we review cue-based feeding programs and why there has been a recent shift in the paradigm to move away from volume-driven feedings in the NICU. We discuss what places NICU infants, especially those born prematurely, at an increased risk for oral aversion and how we as caregivers and parents can minimize the risk. We discuss the benefits of cue-based feedings including how it promotes a more positive feeding experience for the infant and caregiver, its ability to support an infant’s neurodevelopment, as well as findings from some recent research studies that have focused on cue-based feeding.
If you are a clinician and curious about implementing a cue-based feeding program into your NICU, then stay tuned to hear all of the potential benefits. And for my parents who are listening, you will learn how beneficial it is to learn your infant’s behavioral cues which will ultimately support your infant’s development in the NICU and at home. You will not want to miss it, so stay tuned!

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Episode 45 Show Notes: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/episode45

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Empowering NICU Parents Podcast

A podcast specifically meant to educate and empower NICU parents as they endure their baby’s NICU journey. We provide you with tangible tips and support from my unique perspective as a Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP) and a proud preemie Mama! Along with sharing answers to the NICU medical questions you have, Nicole will address and support you through the incredibly difficult emotional struggles that only a NICU parent can understand. Tune in and subscribe today!

To start 2024 out, our first episode focuses on marijuana use, its impact on pregnancy, the growing fetus and the child’s future development, as well as the implications of its use during breastfeeding.

Who would have thought that in 2024, we would be living in a time where marijuana use is so prominent and that it would be legal in 24 states as of January of 2024?!?

But, nonetheless, here we are! Because marijuana has been legalized in so many states, there are now false evolving perceptions on its general safety as well as its implications on the developing fetus and infant who are exposed to it either in utero or through breastmilk. In general, the perception of harm from marijuana is decreasing while the potency of marijuana is scarily increasing. Marijuana is the most widely used illegal drug during pregnancy in the United States. And, its use in gaining speed amongst all adult age groups, in both sexes, and in pregnant women.

For our 56th episode, I reviewed the most up-to-date literature and will share the findings from several studies that reveal both short and long-term negative effects on the pregnant mother and developing fetus if used during pregnancy, and its future implications on the growing infant, child, and their transition into the teenage years, and as an adult after prenatal exposure. I will also point out the general concentration of marijuana in breast milk if used by a nursing mother, as well as how long it stays in the breast milk, and how it may impact the exposed infant.

This episode is packed full of useful information and will be ideal for any healthcare worker or for family members and friends who care about a pregnant woman or nursing mother who is currently using marijuana and want to ensure that she is fully educated on the implications of its use on her growing fetus or infant. And last, but actually, the most important, I encourage ALL women who are either considering becoming pregnant or who are currently pregnant and use marijuana on a regular basis, to listen.

Although marijuana use is so prevelant, it is so crucial that we fully understand its potential impact on the fetus and the child’s future development if used during pregnancy and while breastfeeding.
You will not want to miss this one!

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