Clinical Reference

Examining the Evidence for Pediatric Thickeners

Therapy Insights Member Exclusive
Print Resource — US Letter — 2 pages

Population:

Pediatric

Discipline:

OTSLP

Diagnosis:

Feeding and Swallowing

References:

  • Weir, K. A., McMahon, S., Taylor, S., & Chang, A. B. (2011). Oropharyngeal aspiration and silent aspiration in children. Chest, 140(3), 589-597.
  • Duncan, D. R., Larson, K., Davidson, K., May, K., Rahbar, R., & Rosen, R. L. (2019). Feeding interventions are associated with improved outcomes in children with laryngeal penetration. Journal of pediatric gastroenterology and nutrition, 68(2), 218-224.
  • Duncan, D. R., Larson, K., & Rosen, R. L. (2019). Clinical aspects of thickeners for pediatric gastroesophageal reflux and oropharyngeal dysphagia. Current gastroenterology reports, 21(7), 30.
  • Duncan, D. R., Cohen, A., Du, M., Akkara, A., Catacora, A., Larson, K., ... & Rosen, R. L. (2023). A prospective study of parental experience with thickening feeds for children with oropharyngeal dysphagia and gastroesophageal reflux. The Journal of pediatrics, 260, 113510.
  • Woods, C. W., Oliver, T., Lewis, K., & Yang, Q. (2012). Development of necrotizing enterocolitis in premature infants receiving thickened feeds using SimplyThick®. Journal of Perinatology, 32(2), 150-152.
  • Clarke, P., & Robinson, M. J. (2012). Feed thickeners and NEC: too risky to chance. Journal of Perinatology, 32(6), 479-479.
  • Korioth, T. (2019). Parent Plus: Limit infants’ exposure to arsenic by feeding a variety of grains. AAP News.

This clinical reference breaks down the evidence behind pediatric thickeners, helping you navigate when and how thickening may support safer feeding. It offers clear comparisons, risk considerations, and talking points for collaborating with families so decisions reflect both physiology and patient values. This printable clinical reference is for occupational therapists and speech-language pathologists working with pediatric patients, covering Feeding and Swallowing. Print Resource, US Letter, 2 pages. Members can view and print it.

Use this resource when a patient, family, or colleague asks:

  • What are the risks of thickeners in premature infants?
  • When should I use thickened liquids in pediatric dysphagia?
  • Does thickening reduce aspiration without increasing other risks in children?

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