Study on evaluation of early breastfeeding behaviors in preterm infants / 中国实用护理杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective To understand and evaluate the early breastfeeding behaviors in preterm infants,and to analyze the evolution process of early breastfeeding behaviors in preterm infants,and therefore to provide a theoretical basis for preterm infant breastfeeding.Methods A continuous evaluation of early breastfeeding behaviors in 38 preterm infants was performed commencing on the beginning of breastfeeding and finishing on the attainment of breastfeeding.Results The earliest breastfeeding was initiated from a postmenstrual age (PMA) of 30 weeks.Obvious rooting,efficient areolar grasp,repeated short sucking bursts and irregular swallowing were noted from 31 weeks; The maximum number of consecutive sucks was limited to between 6 and 24 sucks,with a median of 18 sucks.Full breastfeeding was attained at a median of 36 weeks,between 33 and 38 weeks.Conclusions The early breastfeeding capacity in preterm infants is enhanced and becomes perfect gradually with the implementation of breastfeeding,and that is sufficient and practical for establishment of full breastfeeding at a low postmenstrual age of preterm infants.