Education Program Improves Knowledge of Maternity Staff Regarding Breastfeeding

Abstract

Poster Presentation Purpose for the Program Louisiana (LA) breastfeeding rates are among the lowest in the United States, and associated infant mortality and morbidity rates are among the highest. To increase the knowledge of maternity nursing staff regarding breastfeeding and improve attitudes towards implementing evidence‐based maternity practices that facilitate breastfeeding, a six contact‐hour program promoting LA's breastfeeding initiative, The Guided Infant Feeding Techniques (GIFT) was developed. The 10 steps of GIFT are based on the Baby Friendly USA Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding with maternity nursing staff education identified as a critical component. Proposed Change To increase staff knowledge and improve attitudes and self‐efficacy of nurses in implementing the criteria for GIFT hospital certification, which is a stepping stone to Baby Friendly designation. Implementation, Outcomes, and Evaluation The GIFT nursing staff program “Promoting Evidence‐Based Breastfeeding Support in Louisiana: The GIFT” was presented to 1086 participants in 35 hospitals across LA from November 2008 to February 2012. Pretests and identical posttests were provided. Posttest scores were significantly higher after each session in each program ( p Implications for Nursing Practice Program strengths, as reported by participants, include convenience and minimal expense in time and money. Programs repeated in each region allow increased same‐hospital staff attendance. The development of webinar programs and train‐the‐trainer programs are being explored as future options. Breastfeeding programs such as the GIFT nursing staff education program will potentially increase knowledge, intention, and advocacy for increased implementation of evidence‐based maternity practices that increase breastfeeding rates to improve outcomes for infants and women.