Through the 30 month quality improvement project we were able to successfully improve many practices that impact breastfeeding. Using data collection and patient surveys, and being guided by the Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding, we were able to increase our exclusive breastfeeding rates at discharge from 50% to 75%.
This work was done through the pandemic and we adapted by creating a virtual prenatal program where patients could connect with a nurse and learn about birthing practices that can positively impact breastfeeding. Our team of nurse lactation consultants created a breastfeeding specific prenatal program to help educate families about common concerns and how to navigate the first days and weeks of breastfeeding.
Through the project work we were able to do a pilot project around patients collecting colostrum at the end of pregnancy and freezing it at home. We were able to survey patients and received feedback around the patient experience of colostrum collection in pregnancy. This project is now a successful part of our practice and patients can receive a Colostrum Collection Kit around 36 weeks of pregnancy. The collected colostrum can be given to babies while in hospital.
We examined our skin to skin data for birthing people having a cesarean birth and found a delay for skin to skin initiation related to outdated workflows. Through an active simulation in the operating room we were able to secure a workflow that put uninterrupted skin to skin as a priority and gave patients informed choice over their experience.
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