Influence of Feeding on Neonatal Respiratory Variations in Neonatal Intensive Care Units
Maryam Khudair Abbas, Nuhad Mohammed AldooriAbstract
Background:
A commonly used global criterion for discharge from neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) is the ability of infant to take their nutrition orally, as sucking swallowing reflex, supporting babies to initiate drinking orally.
Objective:
Aim of this study is to identify the influence of feeding on neonatal respiratory variations, as well as to find out the relationship between respiratory variations with certain mother and neonates demographic characteristics.
Materials and Methods:
A quantitative, “cross-sectional” design was used during the period from November 9, 2022 to May 25, 2023, in Babylon Province, Iraq on 160 neonates admitted to NICU at Babil Teaching Hospital for Maternity and Children, and Imam Al-Sadiq Teaching Hospital. Data were collected by using pocket watch for counting the number of breaths in 60 s to measure the respiration.
Results:
The study showed the mean value before feeding was 55.6662, and after feeding was 52.0305. The
Conclusion:
The study concludes that there are significant differences in respiratory rate before and after feeding. It is recommended to equip an educational programs for nurses working in this critical unit, which include how to measure the respiratory rate, as well as document correctly, and aware of their major role effecting the outcome of child’s condition.