To compare tolerance to orogastric feeding in preterm neonates of 28 to 34 weeks of gestational age in kangaroo mother care(kmc) position versus supine position - hospital based randomised controlled trial study

Abstract

ABSTRACT Background: Feeding intolerance is a common complication in preterm neonates of 28–34 weeks gestational age, largely attributed to immature gastrointestinal and respiratory systems, including underdeveloped alimentation. Optimal positioning during and after feeding plays a pivotal role in promoting digestion, enhancing gastric emptying, and improving overall nutritional tolerance. Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC), a technique involving skin-to-skin contact between the mother and infant, has been associated with several neonatal benefits, including physiological stability and improved developmental outcomes. However, its specific impact on feeding tolerance, in comparison to the traditional supine positioning in a radiant warmer, remains insufficiently explored and warrants further investigation. Objective: The primary objective of the study is to compare tolerance to orogastric feeding in preterm neonates of 28 to 34 weeks of gestational age in Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC) position versus the conventional supine position. The secondary objectives included assessing physiological stability by monitoring vital signs (heart rate, respiratory rate, oxygen saturation and temperature), assessing comfort levels using the Infant Position Assessment Tool (IPAT) score before and after feeding and determining the duration (in days) required to achieve the target feed volume in each group.