Critical Review: The effects of left lateral body positioning on GERD, during feeding and post-feeding of the preterm infant

This critical review examines the benefits of left lateral body positioning on gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) during feeding and post-feeding of the preterm infant. A literature search was performed and the following article types were found: four repeated measures designs and one two-way repeated measures design. Overall, the literature provides optimistic support for placing the premature infant in a left lateral position during feeding and post-feeding in order to reduce GERD. However, the use of various body positions such as the left lateral positioning to reduce symptoms of GERD requires further research involving larger sample sizes, randomized control study designs, and methodological measurements meeting the gold standard requirements in diagnosing GERD.