Authors : Sanju Kumari; Rituparna Guha

Volume/Issue : Volume 10 - 2025, Issue 1 - January

Google Scholar : https://tinyurl.com/5323p8pk

Scribd : https://tinyurl.com/4jttmcdz

DOI : https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.14890802

Abstract : Introduction: Breastfeeding, although being the most eminent way of nutrition to a new-born, unfortunately remains a challenge for majority of neonates, especially the preterm neonates. Major organisations like WHO recommends cup feeding to the preterm neonates who are unable to breastfeed. However, the investigation for the most universally acceptable cup-structure is still an ongoing debatable matter, with regards to its adequacy and economical management of the precious breast-milk. NIFTY (Neonatal Intuitive Feeding Technology) cup, being an innovative feeding tool, has gained challengeable recognition in recent few studies and is in the process of undergoing further validation based researches. On the other hand, paladai is one of the widely adopted traditional feeding utensil in India. This study aims to compare the effectiveness of feeding a neonate using the NIFTY cup versus Paladai.  Materials and Methods: A quasi-experimental study with two-group post-test only design, in which preterm neonates were enrolled and randomly allocated into two group - NIFTY cup group (n=43) and Paladai group (n=43). A standard-sized impermeable gamzee, placed at chin of baby, was weighed on calibrated mini-weighing machine, before and after every feed; and the time duration of feeding was recorded. The data collected over six weeks period in tertiary care hospitals of Western Maharashtra, was compiled, organised and then statistically tested for its significance, using descriptive (frequency distribution, %, mean, SD) and inferential statistics (chi-square, student t-test, ANOVA).  Result: The mean spillage proportion in NIFTY cup group was 13.85 % ± 4.32 whereas in Paladai group, was 19.26 % ± 5.42. The mean duration of feeding in NIFTY cup group was 18.00 ± 5.85 second per ml and in Paladai group was 19.18 ± 6.85 second per ml. However, the statistical significance of this mean values, with 95% CI and 5% level of significance, is seen only in case of spillage proportion with p value < 0.001.  Conclusion: The study revealed better outcome, while feeding with NIFTY cup, in context to spillage of milk. However, more studies with quantitative evaluation of spillage level and time of feeding is recommended, over larger spectrum of population over longer period.

Keywords : NIFTY Cup, Paladai, Effectiveness, Spillage Proportion and Duration of Feeding.

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