The North Carolina Lactation Educator Training Program Training Healthcare Professionals to Support Breastfeeding Women

摘要

The North Carolina Lactation Educator Training Program (NCLETP) provides healthcare professionals working in health departments, hospitals, and care provider offices with the tools to educate women about breastfeeding and to support breastfeeding women to achieve their breastfeeding goals. In addition to 5 didactic days and an independent study, the NCLETP offers 2 clinical days, which gives learners an opportunity to apply the information learned in the classroom to clinical practice. The program empowers learners to return to their home communities and make a difference by providing breastfeeding education and support. The American Academy of Pediatrics; the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics; the United States Department of Health and Human Services; and the Association of Women's Health, Obstetric and Neonatal Nurses all recommend breastfeeding as the optimal form of infant nutrition. Furthermore, exclusive breastfeeding is recommended for the first 6 months of the infant's life. The World Health Organization, Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative, The Surgeon General's Call to Action, the American Academy of Pediatrics, and the Affordable Care Act all require that healthcare providers, including physicians, nurses, dietitians, counselors, and nursing assistants, be trained in basic breastfeeding management and be able to assist women with breastfeeding. Research shows that women who receive breastfeeding support from their healthcare provider are more likely to initiate breastfeeding and have longer breastfeeding durations. Healthcare providers are responsible for assuring that the information shared with patients is accurate and consistent. It has been identified that healthcare providers lack the lactation training necessary to assist women with breastfeeding issues and concerns. The ability to problem-solve breastfeeding concerns has been identified as an area where healthcare providers need more training (Watkins & Dodgson, 2010).