ABSTRACT
Speech-language pathologists who are feeding specialists take an active role in the evaluation and management of infants and children with dys-phagia and oral-motor deficits. This article focuses on those infants and children who have feeding difficulties due to respiratory, neurologic, anatomic, and/or gas-tointestinal disorders in the NICU or hospital setting and after their discharge to home. Evaluation and treatment techniques emphasizing clinical management are described. Assessment of behavioral state, passive positioning and dynamic handling, utensil selection, bolus modification, compensatory techniques, and oral/nonoral feedings are discussed. Involvement of the family is considered a critical part of all team interventions.
KEY WORDS
pediatrics - dysphagia - oral-motor
