( HS Bobek 078738 2024) Assessing and Treating Infant Feeding and Swallowing Disorders in the NICU with a Focus on High-Risk

Course overview

Neuroprotective feeding practices in the NICU are critical for optimizing long term developmental outcomes for all premature and medically complex infants. While many infants discharge from the NICU feeding orally, most are not yet skilled or mature feeders many continue to require support. Infants born extremely pre term or with certain medical diagnoses are especially at risk for both acute and long term feeding and swallowing problems. Being able to identify these high risk infants is critical when working with fragile feeders in the NICU and for developing safe and supportive feeding care plans in collaboration with the multidisciplinary team. This course will discuss best practices for management of infant feeding and swallowing disorders within the NICU including comprehensive assessment, close collaboration with the medical team, and clinical decision making for implementing neuroprotective interventions with an emphasis on family-centered care. Case studies will be presented to enhance critical thinking and application of knowledge.