Neonatal Nutrition Course 2025

I was recently (this has been in my draft for quite some times) offered an invitation with full sponsorship from a pharmaceutical company to attend an interesting course. 

However, the process to receive and declare this sponsorship was quite hectic this time, requiring approval from the Head of the Pharmacy Department, the Hospital Director, a declaration from SPRM and finally approval from the Director of JKN Perak.

It’s not my first time going through something like this, but I have to say, it felt extra hectic this round. Still, I was super thankful to be part of the delegation, even with the last-minute confirmation of my attendance. For future reference, it’s definitely worth sending in all the necessary forms at least a month before the event. It’ll save a lot of stress and make everything run much more smoothly!

The course was very beneficial. I've received lots of latest updates, input and of course sharing of experiences and expertise. To get a chance sitting down with neonatologists and pediatricians all across the country in the same hall is no jokes, amazing! I gotta know the recent research papers and journals they've been referring, to tailor with the clinical judgement.

Nowadays, focus on neonatal nutrition has expanded from solely promoting the physical growth of premature infants to also emphasizing optimal neurodevelopment. This broader perspective recognizes that adequate nutrition in the Neonatal ICU (NICU) plays a crucial role not only in achieving growth milestones but alsi in supporting long-term cognitive and neurological outcomes. Besides they have come to the conclusion that a growth rate & longitudinal growth monitoring are better indicators of long term outcomes (neurodevelopment) than a one-time discharge anthropometric assessment. And aalways to commence nutrition as early as possible, be it via enteral or parenteral route once our premature baby is stabilized. 

It was a pack 1 day event schedule. Various interesting topics were covered by thoughtful speakers throughout the day. 

What's a big deal of a nutrition in a premature infant?

I've met a lot of familiar faces during the course. It was the time to rekindle too. Hee... On top of that, the sponsor pampered us so much ensuring our stay is comfortable. I definitely enjoyed it to the bits.

So, what's next? Time to share the knowledges with my fellow colleagues back in hospital😊