Feeding induction in children who refuse to eat

B. L. Handen, F. Mandell and D. C. Russo

Seven chronically ill patients who refused to eat after prolonged hospitalizations were started on a feeding induction program that was based on behavior modification. Each of the children exhibited food aversions and was either dependent on central intravenous nutrition or received enteral feedings as the primary source of calories. An intervention program was initiated for six of the patients while they were hospitalized; the program was continued at home by the parents. All seven patients established consistent oral intake, and five were removed from supplemental feeding sources after implementation of the feeding induction programs.