In the neonatal period, low birth weight, preterm, and ill infants, regardless of gestational age, have greater nutritional needs than at any other time in their lives. Without the last trimester, the preterm infant faces the most demanding growth period with a nutritional deficit. For any NICU infant, the stress of medical conditions may contribute to increased nutrient needs. Human milk is a complex fluid that simultaneously provides nutrients and bioactive components that facilitate the adaptive, functional changes required for the optimal transition from intrauterine to extrauterine life. We will discuss the goals and methods of providing appropriate nutrition for NICU infants to promote optimal short- and long-term outcomes.
Learning Objectives:
1. Describe the major goals of nutrition for NICU infants.
2. Explain the importance of immediate nutritional support for preterm, low-birth-weight and ill infants.
3. Describe options for fortification for NICU patients, including post-discharge.
4. Describe components of a plan to transition infants to oral feeds.
5. List at least 4 “best practices” for optimal nutrition & outcomes.
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