Our Journey toward Exclusive Breast Milk Feeding: A System-Wide Approach for Lactation Services

Abstract

When the Joint Commission identified “exclusive breast milk for all term infants” as a 2010 core measure, we were challenged to increase exclusive breast milk feeding rates in a multihospital system using the limited resources of four international board certified lactation consultants. A vast amount of evidence demonstrates that exclusive breastfeeding in the hospital setting leads to increased breastfeeding success rates in the later postpartum period. Research indicates that the knowledge and training of the bedside nurse is essential in supporting the breastfeeding dyad.