Validação para a população portuguesa da Escala de Observação de Competências Precoces na Alimentação Oral

Background: The decision to introduce oral feeding (breast/bottle-feeding) in preterm infants is based on their weight, gestational age, physiological stability, and health status. Although the assessment based on these assumptions has been a clear asset, it has not always met preterm infants’ individual needs. Some instruments allow determining the adequate moment to begin oral feeding as well as monitoring the infant during this process. Objectives: To perform the cultural adaptation and psychometric validation of the Early Feeding Skills Assessment, modified version (Early Feeding Skills Assessment, versão modificada EFS-VM). Methodology: Quantitative study with a sample of 698 newborns with a gestational age ≥24 and <37. Confirmatory factor analysis and Cronbach’s alpha were used to assess the factorial validity and reliability of the model. Results: The EFS-VM presented adequate factorial validity, ([χ2(186)=913.206; p<.001, n=698; χ2/df=4.91; CFI=.903; TLI=.890; RMSEA=.075; P[rmsea≤.05]<.001). Conclusion: EFS-VM is a sensitive, valid, and reliable tool to observe newborns’ early feeding skills;it facilitates the adjustment of the care plan, and allows developing interventions in partnership with families.