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Learning Objective 1: The learner will be able to identify two of the difficulties sometimes experienced by mothers who are breastfeeding late preterm infants.
Learning Objective 2: The learner will be able to identify one approach used to provide support and education to breastfeeding mothers of late preterm infants.
Purpose: The purpose of this project is to improve breastfeeding rates in women with late preterm infants.
Project Activities (Methods): A research proposal was developed as part of the Maternal Child Health Leadership Academy to address breastfeeding in mothers’ of late preterm infants. The goal for participation in the academy was to develop and submit this proposal for funding. The study will examine the feasibility of using a nurse-managed intervention to promote breastfeeding success in mothers with late preterm infants.
Evaluation Methods (Measures): The goal was met as the proposal was submitted for funding in December, 2010 to the Association for Women’s Health, Obstetric, and Neonatal Nurses (AWHONN).
Evaluation Results: The research team has successfully collaborated with our partner hospital, Carolinas Medical Center-University to begin this pilot study. Their generous contribution of lactation consultant time has allowed us to begin the study. In addition, the PI received funding from UNC-Charlotte School of Nursing ($2,000) to support the project. Most of the nurses on the unit are aware of the study and are supportive and interested.
Next Steps: The priority next step is to complete the pilot study over the next year. Next, we will evaluate results of the pilot study to determine feasibility for a larger study, helpfulness of the intervention to mothers, and acceptability of the intervention to mothers, families, and nursing staff.
Leadership Journey: Participation in the Academy has granted me experience with team work, both in the context of health care teams and research teams, additional experience with grant writing, and interaction with clinical agencies for the purpose of research subject recruitment.
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