What are some of the unique feeding challenges seen in infants with neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS)?
Answer
Infants with NAS exhibit poor oral motor coordination and hyperphagia initially. This combined with increased calorie needs can lead to excessive eating or “hyperphagia”. One problematic feeding pattern is "frantic feeding" which involves hyperarousal, irritability, and poor coordination. Another pattern is "sleepy feeding" where an infant struggles to stay awake, taking just a few sucks before falling into a deep sleep. Strategies to help with these difficulties include decreasing stimulation, using slower nipples to control the pace, rhythmic rocking to time the suck-swallow-breathe pattern, feeding in a calm alert state, and providing education on reading infant hunger vs comfort cues.
Tina Davis is a board-certified pediatric occupational therapist with over 30 years of experience. She is committed to lifelong learning and passionate about the ultimate goal of OT - Achieving health, well-being, and participation in life through engagement in occupation.
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