Predictors of the time to attain full oral feeding in late preterm infants

Aim The aim of this study was to determine the factors that predict the timing and age at which preterm infants (born 32–36 weeks gestation) commenced and attained full oral feeding. Methods We conducted a retrospective review of medical records of 647 preterm infants born 2005–2011. Infants were from six neonatal intensive care units in New Zealand, all World Health Organisation Baby‐friendly Hospital Initiative accredited. Results Median time to the first oral feed offered was one day, and median time to the time of full oral feeding was 12 days. No infants attained full oral feeding before 33+3 weeks postmenstrual age. Gestational age, birthweight, medical conditions and location of the neonatal unit were significantly associated with the time taken to commence and attain full oral feeding. Conclusion This study highlights the factors that are associated with the rate at which late preterm infants commence oral feeding and progress to full oral feeding. These findings offer important considerations not only for clinical practice but also discharge planning given the preference for preterm infants reaching full oral feeds before discharge from hospital. Prospective experimental research is required to confirm infant, maternal and environmental factors that influence feeding milestones in late preterm infants.