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Published on: February 5, 2019
Lactation Advocacy Through Continuous Help (LATCH): A Pilot Program to Improve Lactation Rates in the Neonatal
Sarah A Harter1, Amanda N Despart1, Lesline E Martes1
1Albany Medical College, USA.
Summary
The LATCH program, led by medical students, significantly increased the amount of mother's own milk for infants in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). This initiative also showed a positive trend for breast milk feeding at discharge, improving neonatal care.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal Medicine
- Public Health
- Medical Education
Background:
- Breast milk is vital for neonatal development and immunity, especially for preterm infants.
- Sustaining lactation is challenging for mothers with infants in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the effectiveness of the Lactation Advocacy Through Continuous Help (LATCH) pilot program.
- The LATCH program is a medical student-led initiative providing ongoing lactation support in the NICU.
Main Methods:
- A 2-year quality improvement study at a single center.
- Certified Lactation Counselor medical students provided weekly support to mothers.
- Outcomes measured via participant surveys and infant breast milk intake data.
Main Results:
- Infants of mothers in the LATCH program were more likely to receive ≥50% mother's own milk by Days 8-14 (87% vs. 65%).
- Program participants showed a higher likelihood of receiving breast milk at discharge.
- Mothers reported high satisfaction, citing emotional support and accessibility as key benefits.
Conclusions:
- The LATCH program significantly improved breast milk intake for NICU infants.
- The program demonstrated a positive trend towards increased breast milk feeding at discharge.
- Integrating medical students enhances neonatal care and provides valuable clinical experience.
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