Identifying and Addressing the Feeding and Nutrition Issues of Young Children with Special Health Care Needs and Their Families

Kristin F. Lutz, PhD, RN

The first purpose of this pilot study is to collect information regarding the magnitude of feeding and nutrition problems in families of infants and young children who are graduates of neonatal or pediatric intensive care units. A second purpose is to gather data on the family consequences, identify potential family-centered interventions, and address the needs for this population. In this mixed method study, we will interview and survey parents and providers to better understand the magnitude of the problem and family impact for these children and their families. The qualitative data gathered in interviews will be analyzed for major topics and themes. These data, combined with a comprehensive literature review, and data from a recently completed survey of Wisconsin WIC providers, will be used to develop a survey. The survey will be used to identify specific feeding problems and service needs for this population and will be pilot tested with a random sample of families. Following survey pilot testing, funding will be sought for a proposal to implement a statewide survey. Long-term objectives of this program of research are to document the family trajectory and consequences of feeding and nutrition problems after preterm birth, and to develop, test, and implement an arsenal of interdisciplinary, family-centered interventions and services to meet the needs of children and families. The specific aims of this pilot study are: 1) Document, from an insider view, the feeding and nutritional challenges of children with special health care needs under the age of 3 years old, who are graduates of neonatal and pediatric intensive care units. 2) Conduct a comprehensive literature review to document the latest findings on feeding and nutritional challenges and to access available assessment instruments. 3) Develop and conduct a pilot test of a survey to gather information on the needs of families in six of the seven Wisconsin Department of Health and Family Services Perinatal Regions.

The growing number of preterm infants, with increased risk of health problems, is a significant public health problem. Overall, there is little known about the family consequences of preterm birth or the interventions most effective for optimizing infant and family outcomes after preterm birth. This study will be an important first step to address the feeding and nutrition problems commonly experienced by preterm infants, and collect data on the trajectory of feeding challenges, in order to develop effective interventions.