Recently, a 2-month-old, Oscar, came in for feeding therapy to help wean him off NG feeding. Oscar had been born full term, but due to trauma during delivery he had spent 7 days in the NICU to help heal from meconium inhalation and dehydration. He went home with his parents, dependent on NG feedings and prescribed Famotidine.

At the time of his feeding evaluation, Oscar was only taking 10-20 mL by mouth 2 times a day. In addition, he had a tight body, consistently arched his back, hyperextended his neck, and had a hard time being soothed. Several techniques were taught to his parents, including techniques to establish non-nutritive sucking regulation, and changing the position Oscar was in during and after feedings. A recent study has shown through a video fluoroscopic swallowing study that specific positions during feeding decreases the risk of aspiration and provides more airway safety.

During his return visit one week later, improvements were already being observed. Now Oscar could take 60 mL by mouth several times a day. The following week, his parents were able to remove his NG tube as he was now taking 70-90 mL by mouth every  two and a half to three hours. By the fifth week of treatment, approximately 3 months old, Oscar was taking 650-700 mL by mouth per day and he was being discharged by the seventh week of treatment.

Often times, when an infant is receiving all of the correct medical interventions, something as simple as a position can be the final piece of the puzzle. This was case for Oscar and his family.