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Variations In Breastfeeding Practices In The Nicu: A Mixed Methods Investigation, Elizabeth Emaleo Nottingham

Dissertations, 2014-2019

Abstract

Human milk is crucial for the healthy development of infants, particularly preterm infants. Practice patterns and resource allocations to support and promote optimal breastfeeding in this population of infants varies by facility. The purpose of this mixed methods study was to explore differences in practice patterns, describe nurses’ knowledge and perceptions about breastfeeding in the NICU, and identify factors contributing to the differences between hospitals.

Researchers used a sequential explanatory design to gather both quantitative and qualitative data. In the first quantitative phase, a Web-based questionnaire was developed and deployed via Qualtrics to all hospitals with a Neonatal-Perinatal Fellowship …