Blended feeding in gastrostomy-fed children-A scoping review.
Child Care Health Dev 2024;
50:e13222. [PMID:
38265135 DOI:
10.1111/cch.13222]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND
Blended feeding has become increasingly prevalent in recent years with its practice gaining some momentum. With anecdotal reports of benefits and little evidence of harm in the literature regarding blended feeding, this scoping review was deemed important. The aim of this scoping review was to summarise the published evidence about blended feeding in gastrostomy-fed children.
METHOD
The scoping review methodology used included searches in specific online databases: PUBMED, PsychINFO, CINAHL, SCOPUS, AMED and EMBASE for articles that addressed issues pertaining to blended feeds in gastrostomy-fed children. Grey literature was also considered. Inclusion criteria included papers that pertained to information and research on blended feeding in gastrostomy-fed children. Studies published in English over the past 11 years (2011-2022) were included. This resulted in 59 papers being included in this scoping review.
RESULTS
Thematic analysis of the literature identified eight overall themes. It was clear that parents found blended feeding promoted the normalising of feeding, their own involvement in decision-making around foods and promotion of a socially inclusive mealtime. The need for dietician and health professional input and support is key, whereas a lack of guidelines acts as a barrier to blended feeding. Furthermore, risks associated with blended feeding are identified but also the benefits to the physical well-being of the child are considered.
CONCLUSION
The review was comprehensive in that it identified a broad range of literature, exploring the extent, range and nature of research activity related to the use of blended feeds. The lack of original research is a concern. However, it is expected this review will provide direction for researchers, and in particular inform policy and practitioners working in the field where blended feeds may be an option for gastrostomy-fed children.
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