PURPOSE: to evaluate cup feeding manipulation by mothers of low weight preterm infants' and to analyze the aspects that interfere in the correct use of this technique. METHODS: a cross-section correlation study was conducted. The sample included 30 pairs of mothers and babies. Data collection was based on patient' charts; interviews with the newborn' mothers and observing a diet offered in a cup feeding by mothers. The analysis of the results was based on the Software Statistical Package Social Sciences (SPSS) 13.0. We used descriptive statistical techniques through the distribution of the frequencies and the relatives percentages of each observed data. The Chi-square test and the Sperman Correlation Coeficient were used to analyze association between the variables (p<0.05). RESULTS: there is a significant relation between the babies' posture, the cup feeding, the volume given and the health professional guidance about cup feeding. CONCLUSION: mothers can manipulate the cup feeding, however, they need healthy professional guidance on this technique (cup feeding) and the milk's volume; mainly in relation to the care with the position of the glass and the volume of milk.
Milk, Human; Feeding Methods; Infant, Newborn; Infant, Premature
