Nurses' Knowledge of Breastfeeding in the Perinatal Setting
Graduation Date
1-2012
Document Type
Master's Thesis
Document Form
Degree Name
Master of Science
Department
Nursing
Thesis Advisor
Eira Klich-Heartt, RN, MSN
Abstract
Thirty perinatal nurses participated in a descriptive survey designed to measure their current knowledge and nursing practices pertaining to breastfeeding. The findings of the study showed that many nurses are in need of more breastfeeding education in specific areas in order to provide up to date current evidence based practice support of their breastfeeding postpartum patients. A total of 12 out of 16 questions were correctly answered by at least 50 percent of the survey participants. Timing of breastfeeding, the use of nipple shields and estimation of milk supply were knowledge areas found to be deficit. Knowledge areas found to be sufficient were infant sucking patterns, frequency of breastfeeding, and the importance of positioning and nighttime feedings.
Recommendations given to this facility were centered around education and staffing. Working toward obtaining the Baby Friendly status as a facility will help with this goal. This certification requires that a percentage of the perinatal staff have attended a 30-hour intensive breastfeeding education program. Having a certified lactation educator available 24 hours, looking at, and revising as needed breastfeeding policy and procedures are among other recommendations.
As of today, the perinatal nurse educator at this facility is designing a new breastfeeding education program. This researcher has been asked to participate in meetings to take place in the near future. The CNL’s many roles, educator, risk anticipator, outcomes manger and member of the profession will come into play as this researcher continues to work with this facility.