Nutrition Management of High-Risk Neonates After Discharge

Nutritional management of the high-risk infant after hospital discharge is complicated by differences in preceding nutritional and growth deficits, oral feeding skills, and the family's feeding plan. Previously studies of preterm infant postdischarge nutrition do not provide a clear nutritional management choice likely due to these individual differences. Therefore, instead of a one-size-fits-all nutrition plan, nutrition management is individualized to achieve an acceptable growth pattern while supporting the family's plan feeding. More information is needed to define the optimal posthospital discharge growth pattern to ensure brain growth and maturation. However, the benefits of breastfeeding until 6 months of age necessitate development of nutritional management plans, which protect and promote breastfeeding.