Setting Families Up for Breastfeeding Success

Every day, at 9 am and 9 pm, the nurses on the mother/baby unit at the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC) huddle for what they call the “Milk Minute.” They gather to exchange breastfeeding tips and other helpful information. This quick, daily training encourages communication between day and night shift staff, and keeps breastfeeding best practices top of mind. Why the emphasis on breastfeeding? It can significantly reduce infant mortality rates, as well as childhood obesity and related chronic diseases in adulthood. Based on research, staff has worked to modify practices in order to change the breastfeeding culture.  Why? Clinical practices and processes have evolved to promote success in infant/mom bonding and breastfeeding. This includes skin-to-skin contact, rooming in, and educating moms on baby’s feeding cues. Here are some changes you may notice: OLD WAY BABY-FRIENDLY WAY Historically, it had been standard practice for newborns to receive a lot of their care in the nursery – away from their mothers. This practice unintentionally created a barrier to breastfeeding and newborn care education. Babies spend as much time as possible with their mothers. In fact, within five minutes of delivery, the infant is placed on the mother’s chest. After delivery, mom and baby are transferred to the mother-baby unit and room in together. Almost all of baby’s tests and procedures happen at the mother’s bedside. OLD WAY BABY-FRIENDLY WAY During daily...
Source: Life in a Medical Center - Category: Universities & Medical Training Authors: Tags: Doctors Health Tips Nurses Source Type: blogs