An Appraisal of Nurses' Knowledge and Implementation of the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI) at Kogi State University Teaching Hospital
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Background of the Study
The Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI) was launched in 1991 by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund (UNICEF) to promote breastfeeding and improve maternal and infant health outcomes. The initiative aims to ensure that maternity facilities worldwide adopt best practices in supporting breastfeeding, including early initiation of breastfeeding, rooming-in, and avoiding formula supplementation unless medically necessary (WHO & UNICEF, 2023).
In Nigeria, the BFHI is particularly crucial due to high rates of infant morbidity and mortality, which could be mitigated through exclusive breastfeeding. Despite its benefits, the implementation of the BFHI in many healthcare institutions remains inconsistent, largely due to gaps in healthcare workers' knowledge, inadequate resources, and cultural practices that discourage breastfeeding (Ajayi et al., 2024).
At Kogi State University Teaching Hospital, nurses play a central role in maternal and neonatal care, making their knowledge and adherence to BFHI protocols critical for successful implementation. This study seeks to appraise nurses' understanding of BFHI principles and evaluate the extent to which these guidelines are applied in daily clinical practice.
Statement of the Problem
Although the BFHI has been adopted by many hospitals in Nigeria, the extent to which it is implemented effectively remains uncertain. Studies have shown that lack of adequate training, staff shortages, and cultural barriers contribute to poor adherence to BFHI guidelines (Eze et al., 2023). At Kogi State University Teaching Hospital, little is known about nurses’ knowledge and practical application of BFHI standards. A poor understanding or weak implementation of these guidelines could compromise efforts to promote exclusive breastfeeding, potentially leading to suboptimal neonatal outcomes. This study aims to assess nurses' awareness and the degree to which they apply BFHI principles in their clinical practice.
Objectives of the Study
1. To assess nurses’ knowledge of the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI) at Kogi State University Teaching Hospital.
2. To evaluate the extent to which nurses implement BFHI practices in maternal and neonatal care.
3. To identify the barriers affecting effective implementation of BFHI guidelines.
Research Questions
1. What is the level of nurses’ knowledge of the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative?
2. To what extent do nurses at Kogi State University Teaching Hospital implement BFHI guidelines?
3. What are the major challenges affecting the implementation of BFHI in the hospital?
Research Hypotheses
1. Nurses at Kogi State University Teaching Hospital have adequate knowledge of the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative.
2. There is a significant correlation between nurses' knowledge of BFHI and its implementation.
3. Barriers such as inadequate training, staff shortages, and cultural beliefs negatively affect the implementation of BFHI.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on nurses in the maternity and neonatal units of Kogi State University Teaching Hospital. Data will be collected through structured questionnaires, interviews, and observation checklists. Limitations may include self-reporting biases, differences in hospital policies, and reluctance of nurses to disclose gaps in knowledge or non-compliance with BFHI guidelines.
Definitions of Terms
• Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI): A global program aimed at promoting breastfeeding and optimal infant nutrition in healthcare facilities.
• Exclusive Breastfeeding: Feeding an infant only breast milk for the first six months, without any additional food or drink.
• Rooming-in: A practice where mothers and newborns stay together 24 hours a day to encourage breastfeeding.
• Breastfeeding Support: Professional guidance and encouragement provided to mothers to initiate and maintain breastfeeding.
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