An Appraisal of Nurses' Role in Promoting Exclusive Breastfeeding Among New Mothers at Osun State Specialist Hospital
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Background of the Study
Exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) is widely recognized as the optimal form of infant feeding for the first six months of life due to its numerous health benefits for both mother and child. The World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF recommend exclusive breastfeeding to improve infant health outcomes, boost immunity, and prevent early childhood malnutrition and infections (Ogunbiyi et al., 2023). In addition, EBF contributes to maternal health by promoting faster postpartum recovery, reducing the risk of breast and ovarian cancers, and supporting maternal bonding with the infant (Adeyanju et al., 2024).
Despite the documented benefits, exclusive breastfeeding rates remain suboptimal in many regions, including parts of Nigeria. Nurses, as frontline healthcare providers, play a crucial role in promoting and supporting exclusive breastfeeding among new mothers. They provide essential education, guidance, and encouragement, address common breastfeeding challenges, and ensure that mothers have access to the resources and support they need (Adegboyega et al., 2023). At Osun State Specialist Hospital, nurses are expected to educate new mothers on the importance of EBF, help address barriers to successful breastfeeding, and foster a supportive environment for breastfeeding. However, there are concerns that factors such as insufficient training, workload, and lack of resources may hinder nurses’ ability to effectively promote exclusive breastfeeding.
This study aims to appraise the role of nurses in promoting exclusive breastfeeding among new mothers at Osun State Specialist Hospital, focusing on the extent of their involvement, challenges they face, and the effectiveness of their interventions.
Statement of the Problem
Despite global recommendations and the known benefits of exclusive breastfeeding, many new mothers in Nigeria, including those at Osun State Specialist Hospital, face challenges in practicing EBF. These challenges are often compounded by a lack of sufficient knowledge, cultural beliefs, and competing priorities such as work and family responsibilities. Nurses play a significant role in educating and supporting mothers to initiate and maintain exclusive breastfeeding; however, there may be gaps in their training or challenges in their practice that prevent them from fully promoting EBF. This study seeks to evaluate the role of nurses in promoting exclusive breastfeeding, identifying obstacles and proposing strategies for improvement.
Objectives of the Study
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To assess the role of nurses in promoting exclusive breastfeeding among new mothers at Osun State Specialist Hospital.
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To examine the level of knowledge and training nurses have regarding exclusive breastfeeding.
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To identify challenges faced by nurses in promoting exclusive breastfeeding and suggest strategies to improve their role in supporting new mothers.
Research Questions
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What is the role of nurses in promoting exclusive breastfeeding among new mothers at Osun State Specialist Hospital?
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How knowledgeable are nurses regarding exclusive breastfeeding practices and the benefits for both mother and child?
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What challenges do nurses face in promoting exclusive breastfeeding, and how can these challenges be overcome?
Research Hypotheses
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Nurses with higher knowledge and training on exclusive breastfeeding are more likely to effectively promote it among new mothers.
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There is a significant relationship between the workload of nurses and their ability to promote exclusive breastfeeding.
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Nurses at Osun State Specialist Hospital face significant challenges in promoting exclusive breastfeeding to new mothers.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on nurses working in maternal and child health units at Osun State Specialist Hospital, with a specific focus on their role in promoting exclusive breastfeeding among new mothers. The study is limited to this hospital, and results may not be generalizable to other regions or healthcare facilities. Additionally, the study will not evaluate the attitudes of new mothers toward exclusive breastfeeding.
Definitions of Terms
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Exclusive Breastfeeding: The practice of feeding an infant only breast milk for the first six months of life, without the addition of formula, water, or solid foods.
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Nurses' Role: The responsibility of nurses in educating, supporting, and encouraging new mothers to initiate and maintain exclusive breastfeeding.
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Challenges in Promoting EBF: Barriers faced by nurses in advocating for and supporting exclusive breastfeeding, including lack of resources, inadequate training, or cultural factors.
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