Effects of milk flow on the physiologic and behavioral responses to feeding in an infant with hypoplastic left heart syndrome

In this case study of an infant with hypoplastic left heart syndrome, we explore the impact of flow rate on the physiological and behavioural responses to feeding. In this infant, oral feeding, whether with a slow-flow or a standard-flow nipple, was distressing. During slow-flow feeding, she experienced more coughing events, whereas during standard-flow she experienced more gagging. Clinically significant changes in heart rate, oxygen saturation, and respiratory rate were seen during all feedings. Heart rate was higher during standard-flow and respiratory rate was higher during slow-flow. Further research is needed to examine the responses of infants with hypoplastic left heart syndrome to oral feeding and to identify additional supportive feeding strategies.

Authors: Britt Pados, Suzanne Thoyre, Hayley Estrem, Jinhee Park, George Knafl, & Brant Nix

Publication information: Cardiology in the Young. 2017; 27(1): 139-153. doi: 10.1017/S1047951116000251

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