The Effect of Supplemental Nursing System on Sucking Success, Weight Gain Findings and Bilirubin Level in Newborns: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

PURPOSE: The aim of this study is to determine the effect of supplemental nursing system on, sucking success, weight gain findings and bilirubin levels in newborns.

DESIGN AND

METHODS

The study was conducted as a randomized controlled trial. The population of the research consisted of 71 infants who received care and treatment at the Neonatal Intensive Care Clinic of the hospital located in a province in eastern Turkey between February and June 2023. In the study, the "Infant Follow-up Form" to access the birth-related characteristics of infants and mothers, the "LATCH Breastfeeding Diagnostic Scale," to diagnose the process of switching to full breastfeeding and the "Mother-Infant Communication Form" were used. The body weights of the infants were monitored using a Charder baby scale and bilirubin levels were measured using a Drager brand transcutaneous bilirubin measuring device.

RESULTS

The difference between the groups in terms of the mean sucking success, weight gain findings and bilirubin levels scores was statistically significant (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Feeding an infant with the supplemental nursing system had a positive effect on sucking success, weight gain findings and bilirubin levels.