Since we are talking about using the SNS, what are your policies for using
it in the NICU setting? We are a Level 3 facility now and are rewriting
some of our policies or at least putting them more concretely on paper. I
was told today that NANN , I think it was, has an article that says not to
use SNS or cup feeding in the NICU. I don't like black and white articles
because I like to individualize the situation. Right now we use them mostly
on the near term/preterm babies that are pretty short stay in the NICU. It
always seems that they try to pour feedings down them, mom can't pump
enough colostrum and baby doesn't transfer enough for their liking. We then
need a way to supplement them at the breast. We use the guideline that they
have to be able to suck and swallow well, able to pace and have the
endurance to take the feeding.

Those of you with Level 3, do you have some adjusted gestational age
guidelines that you use or do you use guidelines of "feeding maturity" or
what?

I have emphasized the need to include kangaroo care with the feedings and I
would like to have the baby go to the breast a few times, even if it
is "dry breast" before an artificial nipple is introduced.

Thanks for your info.

Denise Stuart RN,BSN,IBCLC

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