[Effect of Direct Breastfeeding Program for Premature Infants in Neonatal Intensive Care Unit]

Area of Science:

• Neonatal Care
• Pediatrics
• Public Health

Background:

• Premature infants in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) face challenges with breastfeeding initiation and continuation.
• Direct breastfeeding support programs are crucial for improving infant feeding outcomes in critical care settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of a direct breastfeeding program on breastfeeding practices among mothers of premature infants in the NICU.
• To assess the program's effects on breastfeeding continuation rates and maternal self-efficacy.

Main Methods:

• A quasi-experimental study involving 60 mothers of premature infants, divided into experimental and control groups.
• The program included breastfeeding education and direct support, with the experimental group engaging in direct breastfeeding at least seven times during NICU stay.
• Data analyzed using chi-square tests and repeated measures ANOVA.

Main Results:

• The experimental group demonstrated significantly higher direct breastfeeding practice rates (p < .001) and breastfeeding continuation rates (p < .001) compared to the control group.
• Maternal breastfeeding self-efficacy was significantly enhanced in the experimental group (p < .001).
• Maternal attachment was not significantly affected by the program.

Conclusions:

• The direct breastfeeding program effectively increases breastfeeding practice and continuation rates in the NICU.
• The program significantly boosts mothers' confidence (self-efficacy) in breastfeeding their premature infants.
• This intervention is recommended for NICU settings to overcome limitations on direct breastfeeding.