From the Field - Designing Baby-Friendly Hospital Step 2 Training A Hospital Case Study

Maintaining Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI) standards within a complex healthcare system presents unique challenges. This case study from a regional perinatal center in the northeast United States details the design and implementation of a program to address BFHI Step 2, which requires ongoing competency assessment and team member training to ensure breastfeeding support. The shift of BFHI competencies to continuous professional development introduced logistical challenges, compounded by staff turnover and budget constraints. To address these, the hospital team developed an in-house learning management system tailored to BFHI requirements. The learning management system offered modular, role-specific content, self-paced learning, and interactive assessments, ensuring adaptability, cost-effectiveness, and scalability. Administrative tools supported compliance tracking and reviews of test results, which assisted with timely resolution of knowledge gaps. A hybrid approach, including in-person training and team meetings, further reinforced staff competence. This sustainable, integrated system fostered continuous learning, and enhanced staff preparedness toward supporting breastfeeding families.