Quantitative and qualitative video analysis of infants feeding: angled- and straight-bottle feeding systems

Abstract

Objective: To determine whether an angled-bottle feeding system is more effective than a straight-bottle feeding system in facilitating the medically recommended semiupright infant posture and to determine whether an angled bottle promotes improved ergonomic alignment and comfort for the feeder.

Study design: On two consecutive days, 23 pairs of parent-infant teams, seated in an ergonomic chair, were videotaped at the same time of day, during which infants were fed by their parents with either an angled or a straight bottle (presented in balanced order) fitted with the infants' regular nipple. Infants were given their regular type and amount of formula.

Results: The angled bottle provided a higher level of satisfaction compared with the straight bottle. Less gastric discomfort occurred with the angled bottle versus the straight bottle when each was compared with the bottle used at home. In addition, feeders assumed ergonomically sound positions.

Conclusion: This study indicates that an angled bottle is preferable to a straight bottle because it encourages more physiologic positioning of the infant, improves the comfort level of the feeder, improves ergonomic feeding performance, and decreases the need for burping.