To support infants in the NICU setting and maximize oral feeding outcomes for these babies, SLPs need to consider the maturational status of premature infants, medical conditions of ill newborns, and positive and negative experiences in the NICU. This webinar will address the maturation of the oral, pharyngeal, and esophageal phases of swallowing, which directly affect safety and efficiency, as well as medical conditions that increase an infant’s risk of feeding disorders. We will explore evidence-based interventions designed to improve feeding experiences, taking into account maturational and medical status, and discuss the concept of homeostasis and its importance in the NICU.

Learning Objectives:
You will be able to:

• define homeostasis and describe how this concept is applied to infants in the NICU
• list at least three major medical conditions associated with feeding challenges in the NICU setting
• describe the difference between rested pacing and regulated pacing

Contents

Introduction/Overview – 7 min.
Maturation of the Oral, Pharyngeal, and Esophageal Phases of Swallowing – 20 min.
Effects of Major Medical Comorbidities on Feeding Abilities – 6 min.
Homeostasis – 25 min.
Evidence-Based Interventions – 33 min.
Questions and Answers – 28 min.

What is Included?

You'll get online access to all the course content, including the full video, references, and handouts, so you can access it from anywhere!

Assessment Type

Self-assessment—Think about what you learned and report on the Completion Form how you will use your new knowledge.