Enteral feeding of preterm neonates: a survey of Australian neonatologists

Postnatal growth restriction has been recently identified as a serious problem in preterm, especiallyextremely low birth weight neonates who are also at the highest risk for necrotizing enterocolitis(NEC). The fear of NEC and the difficulties in interpreting the signs of feed intolerance continue tobe responsible for the variations in enteral feeding practices for these neonates. Such variations inclinical practice (e.g. fluid management, feeding regimens) have also been proposed to represent the‘iatrogenic’ component of NEC. The findings of a survey (a questionnaire for self-administrationand anonymous response) to document the enteral feeding practices of Australian neonatologists forneonates 532 weeks’ gestation are reported. A few controversial feeding practices are discussed inthe light of the current evidence. The importance of minimizing variations in nutritional practicesis emphasized.