Nurses' Perspectives on the Process of Attaining Baby-Friendly Designation

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Management
• Nursing Practice
• Public Health Initiatives

Background:

• The Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI) is a global effort to promote and support breastfeeding.
• Achieving BFHI designation involves significant changes in hospital practices and culture.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore and describe the process of attaining Baby-Friendly designation from the perspectives of registered nurses.
• To identify barriers and facilitators encountered by nurses during the BFHI designation process.

Main Methods:

• A qualitative study employing purposive sampling of registered nurses.
• Data collection through semistructured interviews.
• Analysis using descriptive interpretative analysis.

Main Results:

• Key themes identified include initial resistance, culture shock, investment in the process, teamwork, and a sense of pride.
• Antiquated practices contributed to fear of change and resistance.
• Education, impactful experiences, and positive outcomes helped mediate initial challenges.

Conclusions:

• Successful implementation of the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative requires addressing staff resistance and cultural shifts.
• Effective education models and fostering teamwork are crucial for nurses to embrace and achieve BFHI designation.
• The designation process, despite initial challenges, can ultimately become a source of professional pride and improved patient care.