Improving Relactation Rates for Mothers with Infants in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit

Abstract:  Some factors affecting relactation in mothers with lactation failure include lack of knowledge, breast problems, infant conditions, and maternal conditions. The goal of this quality improvement project was to develop a relactation protocol to improve breastfeeding rates in infants older than 7 days of age on admission, discharged from the NICU with partial or full breast milk by at least 10 %. Inclusion criteria were infants admitted on formula feedings with mothers interested in relactation. Methods utilized included a NICU specific protocol for relactation. Relactation Information was provided to nurses via electronic platform, pre-tests and post-tests were used to measure confidence to teach mothers about relactation strategies. A dichotomous survey was provided to assess willingness to participate in the program. Lactation consultants provided newly developed relactation guideline for relactation strategies. Results from dichotomous surveys showed 100% of participants were willing to participate in relactation program during 2022. Nursing confidence in educating mothers on relactation increased from 66% to 100% post education Q1 2022. Relactation results indicated patients discharged on partial or full breast milk according to the inclusion criteria were as follows; 2021 Q1 58%, Q2 47%, Q3 50%, Q4 53%. For 2022, patients discharged on partial or full breast milk were as follows; Q1 64%, Q2 87%, Q3 82%, Q4 72%. Based on these results there was a 24.25% increment of patients discharged on partial or full breast milk from the relactation program. In conclusion, a relactation protocol is a powerful tool to increase human milk provision.

Publication: Not applicable

Diversity and Inclusion: Nicklaus Children’s Hospital stands unified around our mission to inspire hope and promote lifelong health for the children and families aligning with human principles of diversity, equity and inclusion.

Study Supported by:
Alessandra Angelini, DNP, APRN, CRNA – Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist, Jackson Memorial Hospital