Factors affecting feeding ability in children with neonatal intensive care unit stay: a cluster analysis using machine learning methods

Oral feeding difficulty can be commonly observed in neonates in NICU, and more detailed assessments are needed to illustrate the difference in gestational features (e.g., born weight, gestational age) between difference profiles. PIOFRA features can be strong predictors in predicting whether neonates had achieved full oral feedings or not. However, more studies are needed to verify the detailed mechanism to illustrate how sucking and rooting reflex functions ensure the safe and efficient content transportation in neonates administered to NICU.