Which feeding technique should be included in teaching parents of an infant with a cleft lip palate?

Burping the infant frequently during feedings is essential for managing any potential air intake during the feeding process, especially in infants with a cleft lip and/or palate. These infants may have difficulty creating a proper seal around a nipple, which can lead to an increased risk of aerophagia, where they swallow air while feeding. By burping them frequently, caregivers can help alleviate discomfort and reduce the risk of aspiration or gastrointestinal issues related to swallowing air.

Infants with a cleft lip and palate may have unique feeding challenges, and proper techniques are crucial to ensuring they receive adequate nutrition while minimizing the risk of complications. Burping them can also help avoid excessive fussiness following feedings, as infants often need to release the air they consume.

While feeding the infant upright and using specialized bottles with softer, slower-flow nipples are also important techniques, the act of burping specifically addresses the immediate concern of air intake, which is a common challenge in these cases. Thus, frequent burping during feedings contributes significantly to the overall feeding strategy for infants with cleft lip and palate, and underscores the importance of tailored care for these infants.