Predictors and outcomes of the Neonatal Oral Motor Assessment Scale (NOMAS) performance: a systematic review.

The present review highlights benefits and limitations of the NOMAS. Future research is needed to develop observational and clinically-relevant tools to better identify newborns which are at lower- and higher-risk of developing less-than-optimal feeding behaviors and to guide with greater precision the diagnostic and therapeutic journey of these newborns. What is Known: • The assessment of oral-motor skills in newborns and infants is critical for early intervention • The NOMAS is the most adopted tool to assess oral-motor skills in newborns and infants What is New: • The ability of the NOMAS to target newborn at risk for feeding disorders is confirmed • Nonetheless, the capacity to predict long-term developmental outcomes is limited.