Provide one example, with supporting evidence, of an educational activity provided by the organization focused on improving nurses' expertise in teaching a patient or family.
FF Thompson Hospital supports the allocation of time for the Birthing Center Nurses to have two hours of specialty education every other month. Twice annually the Lactation Consultant provides an update for the RNs and OB technicians on current evidence-based practice for teaching mothers and families about breastfeeding. This allows for consistent teaching by all staff, reinforcing correct practices with patients and families. The staff use an evidence-based algorithm to individualize care based on the infant's feeding performance and the mother's return demonstration of proper technique.
Training was presented to staff at the July, 2013 at the staff meeting/education day (Exhibit SE6.1). Meeting minutes are also included (Exhibit SE6.2)
Exhibit SE6.1
Exhibit SE6.1 Helping women to meet their Breastfeeding goals
Exhibit SE6.2 Exhibit SE6.2 OB Staff Meeting Notes July 23-2013
In 2013-14, the Lactation Consultant developed three brochures for new moms on the First 24 Hours of Breastfeeding (Exhibit SE6.3), using a breast shield (Exhibit SE6.4), and the use of breast pumps (Exhibit SE6.5). The staff use the brochures to further guide their teaching with new moms so the information given is evidence-based and consistent.
Exhibit SE6.3
Exhibit SE6.3 Breast Feeding Brochure 2014
Exhibit SE6.4
Exhibit SE6.4 Breast Shield Brochure
Exhibit SE6.5
Exhibit SE6.5 Breast Pump Brochure
Prior to this structured education, nurses often relied on personal breastfeeding experience and opinions, rather than evidence-based practice. Patients expressed confusion and dissatisfaction when receiving conflicting advice about breastfeeding. Both the brochures and the presentation reinforce evidence-based practice. They coincide with the breastfeeding assessment algorithm. The education for the nurses supports their use of the steps in the algorithm to reassure families what is normal about breastfeeding and relieve the families' anxiety about providing adequate nutrition for their babies (Exhibit SE6.6).
Exhibit SE6.6
Exhibit SE6.6 Algorithm