For a "ballpark" estimate of what baby should take, I use the 6 times
weight in ounces for 24 hour.  I have compared this with the x number of
ounces per x amount of weight and found the results to be within 1-2
ounces per day-not a really significant difference.  I just find the 6x
weight in ounces to be an easy one to remember and easy to explain to
parents.  Of course, any such mathematical formula should be a starting
point, not written in stone.  As to when gain is "normal" I think it's
better to watch baby's behavior, developmental status, etc rather than
to have an absolute number baby must attain.  In FTT cases I would
assume the baby's doc is well involved in the feeding plan and is more
likely to want to achieve a specific number (although I do have a few
who look more at baby with weight being only one of several factors to
consider).  I do go from discharge weight rather than birth weight in
the early weeks.  I figure that's close to the lowest weight we would
expect to see in a helathy newborn.  As I've said before, I think birth
weight is misleading-it includes the meconium and any additional fluids
baby may have taken on from labor interventions, mom's fluid status,
etc.  I really think the 24 hour weight should be the basis for future
comparisons rather than birth weight.
Winnie

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