Course Description:

This course provides trainees with essential knowledge of the nutritional needs of preterm and underweight infants, along with their dietary assessment and support. It covers the calculation of caloric requirements and essential nutrients such as proteins and fats necessary for growth.

The course also explains and applies the concept of tube feeding for preterm and underweight infants, with practical training on parenteral (intravenous) nutrition for this group of newborns.

It highlights the importance of breast milk and its necessary fortifiers, how to feed preterm infants, and how to recognize and manage respiratory diseases. It also covers the nutritional management of hyperinsulinemia in underweight preterm infants, selection of appropriate feeding after hospital discharge, and developing skills to monitor growth until achieving the desired healthy weight.

Course Objectives:

By the end of the course, participants will be able to:

• Identify nutritional needs and apply them to preterm and underweight infants.
• Conduct nutritional assessment and monitor growth toward healthy weight.
• Understand caloric, protein, and fat requirements for preterm and underweight infants.
• Apply tube feeding and parenteral nutrition techniques.
• Select appropriate feeding methods and follow up after hospital discharge.

Target Audience:

• All nutrition department staff in hospitals
• Nutrition specialists and technicians
• Students of clinical nutrition and food service programs
• Nurses
• Health educators
• Anyone interested in developing their skills and expertise in this field