Swallowing and feeding of young children on high-flow oxygen therapy

Abstract

Background: Oral feeding practices of young patients on high-flow oxygen (HFO₂) have been controversial. Limited literature exists on this topic, but new studies suggest introducing oral feeds.

Objective: This study aims to describe the changes in swallowing and feeding of a group of young children on HFO₂.

Method: Twelve participants (mean age 34.17 months [s.d. = 3.97]) on HFO₂ were assessed clinically at the bedside using the Schedule of Oral Motor Assessment. Assessments were conducted twice to determine the change in characteristics: upon approval from the managing doctor when respiratory stability on HFO₂ was achieved and for a second time on the last day of receiving HFO₂ (mean 2.6 days apart). Patients received standard in-patient care and speech therapy intervention.

Results: Most participants displayed typical oral motor function at initial and final assessments for liquid, puree and semi-solid consistencies. Purees and soft solid consistencies were introduced to most participants (n = 11, 91.7%). Solids and chewables were challenging for all participants during both assessments. Half of the participants displayed gagging and a wet vocal quality with thin liquids at the initial assessment only.

Conclusion: This small-scale study found that HFO₂ should not preclude oral diets, but in this sample, small amounts of oral feeding could be introduced with caution, in an individualised manner, and with a collaborative multidisciplinary approach. Further research is essential.

Contribution: Partial oral feeding of specific consistencies was possible during the assessment of young paediatric in-patients on HFO₂. Monitoring of individual patient characteristics and risk factors by a specialist feeding team is essential.