NICU Nutrition Management

Case Description

A 3-day-old preterm infant, born at 32 weeks gestation, is in the NICU receiving care for growth restriction and feeding support. The infant is transitioning from parenteral to enteral nutrition. Participants will collaborate to assess the infant’s condition, monitor feeding tolerance, calculate nutritional needs, and communicate updates to the healthcare team and family. This simulation allows for interdisciplinary teamwork and comprehensive care planning in addressing the needs of preterm infants and their families.
This scenario has been mapped to the AACN Essentials domains and subdomains for entry-level competencies. Additionally, it has been mapped to the Essential Practice Competencies for Credentialed Nutrition and Dietetics Practitioners.

Learning Objectives

1. Demonstrate a focused nutritional and neonatal assessment, including differentiating expected developmental and physiological variations in preterm infants from abnormal findings
2. Evaluate parenteral and enteral nutrition plans for a preterm infant and assess the appropriateness of current nutritional interventions.
3. Collaborate with the interdisciplinary team members to develop a plan of care.
4. Develop a nutrition care plan.
5. Provide nutrition education to caregivers.