Effects of intervention on feeding practices in the intensive care unit at the University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka. Zambia

Abstract

Preintervention Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices with respect to breastfeeding among Healthworkers from Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at the University Teaching Hospital (UTH) and mothers with babies admitted to NICU was carried out. The Healthworkers and mothers were given questionnaires to answer on Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices regarding breastfeeding. A two weeks' Lactation Management Course for the Healthworkers was conducted. After 7 weeks the same questionnaires were given to the Healthworkers and a different group of mothers whose babies were admitted in NICU during this period.There was improvement in the Know!edge, Attitudes and Practices of Healthworkers after being trained. This improvement was reflected in the equally improved Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices of the new group of mothers who were in contact with trained Healthworkers. NICU practices not supporting breastfeeding have been changed, mothers are now allowed m NICU to breastfeed or feed their babies expressed breastmilk by cup and spoon. No bottles are used. There is also reduced use of formula milk which is given only to those babies whom mothers are not available. Recommendations have been made regarding what should be done next.