Systematic Review of Factors Influencing Non-Medically Indicated Formula Supplementation of Newborns in the Hospital...

To examine maternal and newborn factors that influence non-medically indicated (NMI) formula supplementation of newborns in the hospital setting.

Electronic databases CINAHL and Ovid MEDLINE were searched for peer-reviewed articles published in English between January 1, 2000, and September 30, 2017.

A total of 616 studies were returned from the search. After removal of duplicates, 558 studies remained, 531 of which were excluded based on factors of not being related to term newborns, not being published in a peer-reviewed journal, or study not completed in a hospital setting. Five studies were included that met the inclusion and exclusion criteria.

Data from the five studies were extracted and compiled into a summary table.

Synthesis indicated that maternal ethnicity, educational level, and income influence the decision to provide NMI formula supplementation to newborns. First-time mothers and those with cesarean birth, no previous breastfeeding experience, female newborns, and large-for-gestational-age newborns were at greater risk for NMI formula supplementation. Neonates born at night are more likely to receive NMI formula supplementation, and NMI formula supplementation increases during the night hours and during the first 24 hours after birth.

Identification of newborn/maternal risk factors, continuous breastfeeding support, and provision of consistent breastfeeding education to women are factors that influence NMI formula supplementation of newborns. With collaboration among hospital physicians, midwives, nurse practitioners, nurses, and lactation consultants to identify at-risk newborns, the goal of decreasing NMI formula supplementation of newborns in the hospital can be achieved.