Standardizing Feeding Strategies in Moderately Preterm Infants

Abstract Objective: To evaluate the impact of a standardized feeding protocol and donor breast milk (DBM) provision on clinical outcomes in moderate preterm infants (MPT, 29–33 6/7 weeks gestational age). Study Design: A protocol for MPT infants born > 1500 g was implemented clinically to standardize feeding advancements at 30 mL/kg/day. Infants < 33 weeks received DBM. We retrospectively identified 131 and 144 infants born before and after implementation. Clinical data including central venous line (CVL) placement, feeding tolerance, growth, and provision of maternal breast milk (MBM) were collected. Result: Number of CVLs, days to full enteral volume (FEV), and MBM provision was unchanged. There was a narrower range of days to FEV post-implementation. Growth metrics were similar between eras. Conclusion: Implementation of a feeding protocol for MPT infants is associated with more consistent time to FEV. With monitoring and appropriate fortification, DBM use in this population is not associated with worse growth outcomes.