Background of the Study
Exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) is recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) as the most beneficial form of infant feeding during the first six months of life. It provides essential nutrients and antibodies that protect infants from infections, supports optimal growth and development, and promotes a strong emotional bond between mother and child (WHO, 2024). Despite its benefits, EBF rates remain suboptimal in many regions, including Nigeria, where cultural practices, lack of awareness, and inadequate support from healthcare providers hinder its widespread adoption (Afolabi & Musa, 2023).
Nurses play a crucial role in promoting EBF by providing education, counseling, and support to mothers during antenatal and postnatal visits. Nurse-led interventions such as breastfeeding education sessions, individualized counseling, and peer support groups have been shown to increase breastfeeding initiation and exclusivity (Eze & Bello, 2024). At Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Sokoto, nurses are involved in supporting mothers with breastfeeding practices, but the impact of their interventions on EBF rates has not been extensively studied.
This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of nurse-led interventions in increasing exclusive breastfeeding rates at FMC Sokoto, contributing to better maternal and child health outcomes in the region.
Statement of the Problem
Despite the known benefits of exclusive breastfeeding, the practice remains low in Nigeria, with factors such as inadequate knowledge, societal norms, and lack of breastfeeding support contributing to this gap (Musa & Ibrahim, 2023). At FMC Sokoto, nurses are tasked with educating mothers about the importance of exclusive breastfeeding, but there is limited evidence on the impact of these interventions on breastfeeding rates. The lack of formal evaluations hinders the ability to optimize strategies for promoting EBF.
This study seeks to address this gap by assessing the effectiveness of nurse-led interventions in improving EBF rates at FMC Sokoto. The findings will guide future breastfeeding support programs and help develop best practices for increasing EBF rates in the region.
Objectives of the Study
1. To assess the impact of nurse-led interventions on exclusive breastfeeding rates at FMC Sokoto.
2. To identify the factors that influence mothers' decisions to exclusively breastfeed.
3. To recommend strategies for enhancing nurse-led interventions to improve exclusive breastfeeding practices.
Research Questions
1. How do nurse-led interventions affect exclusive breastfeeding rates at FMC Sokoto?
2. What are the factors influencing mothers' decisions to practice exclusive breastfeeding?
3. What strategies can be implemented to improve nurse-led interventions for promoting exclusive breastfeeding?
Research Hypotheses
1. Nurse-led interventions significantly increase exclusive breastfeeding rates at FMC Sokoto.
2. Mothers who receive nurse-led education and counseling are more likely to exclusively breastfeed their infants.
3. Lack of adequate support and resources reduces the effectiveness of nurse-led interventions on exclusive breastfeeding rates.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on the role of nurses in promoting exclusive breastfeeding at FMC Sokoto. It will assess the impact of nurse-led interventions in the hospital setting and will not include interventions provided by other healthcare professionals or community-level programs. Limitations may include variability in the implementation of interventions and differences in maternal knowledge and attitudes.
Definitions of Terms
• Exclusive Breastfeeding (EBF): The practice of feeding an infant only breast milk for the first six months, with no other liquids or solids.
• Nurse-Led Interventions: Educational and counseling activities led by nurses to support health behaviors such as breastfeeding.
• Breastfeeding Support: Assistance provided to mothers to initiate and sustain breastfeeding, including guidance on techniques and benefits.
• Maternal Health: The health and well-being of mothers during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum.
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