An Investigation of Nurses' Knowledge of Breastfeeding Best Practices in National Hospital, Abuja
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Background of the Study
Breastfeeding is widely recognized as one of the most beneficial practices for infant health, providing essential nutrients, antibodies, and fostering a strong bond between mother and child (Smith et al., 2024). The World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of an infant’s life, followed by continued breastfeeding alongside appropriate complementary foods (WHO, 2023). However, despite the numerous benefits of breastfeeding, several barriers prevent optimal breastfeeding practices, including lack of maternal knowledge, societal norms, and healthcare provider attitudes.
In Nigeria, the National Hospital Abuja serves as a key healthcare facility offering maternal and child health services. The hospital provides care for a wide range of patients, and as a referral hospital, it has the responsibility of providing quality education on breastfeeding practices to new mothers. Nurses in this institution are pivotal in educating and guiding mothers on the importance of breastfeeding and how to address challenges such as latch issues, milk supply, and exclusive breastfeeding. However, the effectiveness of nurses' knowledge of breastfeeding best practices has not been systematically assessed, especially in relation to how they promote and implement breastfeeding education during maternity care.
Research suggests that healthcare providers, including nurses, play a significant role in shaping mothers’ attitudes toward breastfeeding and ensuring that they have the necessary skills and information to breastfeed successfully (Musa et al., 2023). This study seeks to investigate the extent of nurses’ knowledge of breastfeeding best practices at National Hospital, Abuja, with the aim of identifying gaps in knowledge and providing recommendations for improving breastfeeding education for mothers.
Statement of the Problem
Inadequate knowledge among healthcare providers, particularly nurses, regarding breastfeeding best practices is a significant barrier to the promotion of successful breastfeeding in Nigeria. While National Hospital Abuja is a leading healthcare facility, it is unclear whether the nursing staff possesses sufficient knowledge about current breastfeeding guidelines and best practices to provide effective education and support to new mothers. Without proper education and guidance, mothers may struggle with breastfeeding, leading to early cessation and negative health outcomes for both mother and child (Chukwu et al., 2023).
This study addresses the gap in understanding the level of knowledge nurses have regarding breastfeeding practices and aims to assess how well they apply this knowledge in their interactions with new mothers.
Objectives of the Study
- To assess nurses' knowledge of breastfeeding best practices at National Hospital, Abuja.
- To evaluate the relationship between nurses' knowledge of breastfeeding and the quality of breastfeeding education provided to mothers.
- To identify barriers to effective breastfeeding education by nurses and suggest strategies for improvement.
Research Questions
- What is the level of knowledge of breastfeeding best practices among nurses at National Hospital, Abuja?
- How does nurses' knowledge of breastfeeding practices influence the quality of breastfeeding education provided to mothers?
- What are the main barriers preventing effective breastfeeding education by nurses at National Hospital, Abuja?
Research Hypotheses
- Nurses with a higher level of knowledge regarding breastfeeding best practices provide more effective breastfeeding education to mothers.
- There is a significant relationship between nurses’ knowledge of breastfeeding practices and the mothers' breastfeeding success rate.
- Nurses’ knowledge of breastfeeding practices is influenced by factors such as training, years of experience, and educational resources.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on nurses at the National Hospital Abuja and assess their knowledge of breastfeeding best practices. It will investigate the relationship between knowledge levels and the quality of breastfeeding education provided to mothers. Limitations include potential biases in self-reported data and the challenge of generalizing the findings to other hospitals or regions in Nigeria.
Definitions of Terms
- Breastfeeding Best Practices: Evidence-based practices that promote effective breastfeeding, including proper latch techniques, frequency of feeding, and exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months.
- Nurses’ Knowledge: The understanding and awareness nurses have regarding current guidelines and best practices for breastfeeding.
- Exclusive Breastfeeding: The practice of feeding an infant only breast milk for the first six months, with no other food or drink provided.
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