An Investigation of Nurses' Adherence to the World Health Organization (WHO) Guidelines on Breastfeeding at Enugu State University Teaching Hospital
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Background of the Study
Breastfeeding is widely recognized as the optimal feeding method for infants, providing essential nutrients and protective factors that contribute to healthy growth and development. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life, followed by continued breastfeeding in combination with appropriate complementary foods up to two years or beyond (WHO, 2024). Breastfeeding offers numerous health benefits, including reduced risks of infections, chronic diseases, and improved cognitive development for the child, as well as health benefits for the mother, such as reduced risks of breast cancer and improved postpartum recovery (Ahmed et al., 2024).
However, despite the proven benefits of breastfeeding, many mothers face barriers to following WHO's guidelines, particularly in hospital settings. Nurses play a pivotal role in promoting and supporting breastfeeding, as they are often the first healthcare professionals to interact with mothers after childbirth. Nurses' knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding breastfeeding significantly influence mothers' decisions and their ability to successfully breastfeed their infants (Khan et al., 2023).
At Enugu State University Teaching Hospital, an institution with a large maternity ward, it is crucial to assess the level of adherence to WHO breastfeeding guidelines by nurses, as they are directly involved in advising and assisting mothers. Previous studies indicate that inadequate training, misconceptions about breastfeeding, and lack of support systems are prevalent challenges that prevent nurses from adhering to established guidelines (Adebayo et al., 2023). This study aims to investigate the extent to which nurses at this institution follow the WHO guidelines on breastfeeding and identify the factors influencing their practices.
Statement of the Problem
Despite the well-established benefits of breastfeeding and the WHO guidelines recommending exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, adherence to these guidelines by nurses remains inconsistent, particularly in developing countries like Nigeria. At Enugu State University Teaching Hospital, it is unclear how well nurses are adhering to the WHO guidelines on breastfeeding. Preliminary observations suggest that factors such as lack of training, insufficient support systems, and competing hospital practices may contribute to suboptimal breastfeeding support for mothers. This research will examine the barriers and facilitators that impact nurses’ adherence to these guidelines and explore ways to improve breastfeeding practices in the hospital.
Objectives of the Study
- To assess nurses' knowledge and understanding of the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines on breastfeeding at Enugu State University Teaching Hospital.
- To evaluate nurses' adherence to the WHO guidelines on breastfeeding in the hospital setting.
- To identify the challenges and barriers affecting nurses’ adherence to the WHO breastfeeding guidelines at Enugu State University Teaching Hospital.
Research Questions
- What is the level of knowledge among nurses at Enugu State University Teaching Hospital regarding the WHO guidelines on breastfeeding?
- To what extent do nurses at Enugu State University Teaching Hospital adhere to the WHO guidelines on breastfeeding?
- What are the barriers that affect nurses' adherence to the WHO breastfeeding guidelines in this hospital?
Research Hypotheses
- Nurses at Enugu State University Teaching Hospital have a high level of knowledge regarding the WHO guidelines on breastfeeding.
- Nurses at Enugu State University Teaching Hospital adhere to the WHO guidelines on breastfeeding.
- There are significant barriers that affect nurses' adherence to the WHO breastfeeding guidelines at the hospital.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on registered nurses working in the maternity and pediatric wards of Enugu State University Teaching Hospital, where breastfeeding support is most relevant. The scope will include assessing their knowledge, practices, and adherence to the WHO guidelines on breastfeeding. Limitations include potential biases in self-reported data and the exclusion of other healthcare workers who may also influence breastfeeding practices, such as lactation consultants or doctors.
Definitions of Terms
- World Health Organization (WHO) Guidelines on Breastfeeding: Recommendations provided by the WHO to promote breastfeeding, including exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months and continued breastfeeding with complementary foods thereafter.
- Adherence: The extent to which nurses follow the WHO guidelines in their practice of promoting and supporting breastfeeding.
- Barriers: Factors such as lack of training, misconceptions, or insufficient resources that prevent nurses from fully adhering to breastfeeding guidelines.
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