In a message dated 5/11/98 9:23:28 PM Pacific Daylight Time,
[log in to unmask] writes:

<< [log in to unmask] >>
In regard to the infant that was orally suctioned and  now is on a nipple
shield.  I worked with a baby a year ago in the same situation.  This baby
ended up having several ulceration's in its mouth from trauma related to
suctioning.  Needless to say the baby was very guarded about feedings.  If the
nipple shield is keeping the feedings "friendly" than give the baby more time.
Try to keep the mother pumping with a double set up if possible if supply is
an issue.  Can you determine intake on a scale with a 1-2 gm. accuracy?
Follow weight gain.  Are any ulceration's healed?  Discourage pacifier use, if
any.  Gently work with weaning of the shield over the next 1-2 weeks.  I
realize that there are a lot of strong opinions about shields, but we when
many of us are in fix it positions we should respect that they can be good
tools when used correctly.  And if it was not for the shield this mother would
have more than likely bagged breastfeeding.
Good Luck
Karen Querna