Swallowing and feeding characteristics of a sample of young children on high flow oxygen

Abstract

Aim To determine the swallowing and feeding characteristics of young children on high flow oxygen (HFO2). Method Twelve participants (mean age=2.8 years; SD=0.3) on HFO2 were assessed using a bedside clinical assessment and the Schedule of Oral Motor Assessment. Clinical feeding assessments were conducted at two points in time (mean 2.6 days apart) initially upon respiratory stability on HFO2, and subsequently, upon cessation. Patient files were reviewed, and caregivers briefly interviewed. Results Some reasons for admission were hot water burns (n=6;50%) or bronchopneumonia (n=3;25%) and all participants were from a low-income setting. Most participants displayed typical oral motor function at both initial and final assessments for the liquid, puree and semi-solid consistencies assessed. Purees and soft solid consistencies were introduced to most participants (n=11;91.7%) on HFO2, while solids and chewables were challenging. Further observation revealed that half of the participants displayed gagging and a gurgling vocal quality on swallowing thin liquids at the initial assessment only. Conclusion Partial oral feeding of specific consistencies was possible during assessment of young paediatric in-patients on HFO2, but further research is necessary. Careful monitoring of individual patient characteristics by a specialist feeding team is essential.