The benefits of human milk for term infants are well recognized. Human milk is species-specific and has been adapted through evolution to meet the needs of the human infant, supporting growth, development, and survival. It has only been in the very recent past that significantly preterm infants have survived and that attention has been paid to the crucial role of nutrition in the long-term outcomes for these infants. 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. Preterm infants suffer not only from gastrointestinal immaturity, but also from functional immaturity of all organs and physiologic systems, as well as specific illnesses and complications, which further confound their transition from fetus to newborn. We will discuss the goals and methods of providing appropriate nutrition for NICU infants to promote optimal short and long term outcomes.
Learning Objectives:
Identify the major goals of nutrition for preterm and sick NICU infants.
Discuss relative risks and benefits of mothers’ milk (including donor milk) for preterm and ill infants.
Describe at least 3 components of nutritional discharge planning for NICU graduates.
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