Evaluation of the breastfeeding handbook: "Is this the most effective way to transmit breastfeeding information?'

Saunders, Mallory (2016) Evaluation of the breastfeeding handbook: "Is this the most effective way to transmit breastfeeding information?'. Practicum Report. Memorial University of Newfoundland. (Unpublished)

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Abstract

Many resources currently exist for new parents on feeding their baby. These resources are given during the pre-natal, intra-natal, and post-natal period and offer parents information on feeding their baby. One of the vital resources given to new parents is the Provincial Breastfeeding Handbook. There has not been an evaluation of the handbook since publication. The effectiveness of paper copy educational materials is not supported in the literature yet the need for breastfeeding education and support has been reiterated for many years. The purpose of this practicum project was to evaluate the handbook. In order to do this, an integrative literature review of the various methods of breastfeeding support, education, and evaluations was undertaken. Following the literature review and consultations with the Perinatal Program of Eastern Health and Baby-Friendly Newfoundland and Labrador, a questionnaire was developed to evaluate the Provincial Breastfeeding Handbook and determine how new parents preferred to receive information on feeding their newborn. The questionnaire was distributed in both Rural and Urban Eastern Health to new parents at the two month, four month, and six month well child check-up with a Public Health Nurse. Questionnaire results indicated that while paper copies of breastfeeding educational material are still highly valued, the majority of parents agreed they would access online educational materials if provided a link. The majority of parents also indicated they use the handbook and found it very helpful. Results also showed the importance of direct education and support from Health Care Providers. Based on the questionnaire results, the continued use of the handbook along with the incorporation of electronic breastfeeding education and support is recommended.

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