Newborn Nursery Teaching Attending Guide: Module 5. Newborn Feeding

Abstract

Abstract This resource is a part of a seven module curriculum intended to provide teaching faculty caring for well newborns with accessible, approachable, easily delivered, hands-on tools for bedside teaching in the newborn nursery. The seven modules are linked. This module focuses on newborn feeding patterns. The initiation of breastfeeding can be a trying and frustrating time for mothers and babies alike. Early identification of problems is a critical skill for physicians who wish to support breastfeeding and avoid the potential pitfalls associated with inadequate feeding. An understanding of the multiple differences between breast and bottle feeding is essential for giving appropriate anticipatory guidance and assessing feeding adequacy. This module has been adapted from information normally taught to residents and students in the Newborn Nursery at Stanford. Trainees have found this to be extremely helpful information, and attending physicians have noticed improved awareness and identification of feeding difficulties among those who have had exposure to this information. Third-year medical students and pediatric residents were evaluated on a 5-point Likert scale. Results are as follows: “Presentation was well-organized and presented clearly.” (4.83 average); “Audiovisual aids were helpful.” (4.83); “Topic was important and useful.” (5.00); “Presentation was appropriate for my level of training.” (4.67); “Presenter achieved stated objectives.” (5.00); “Overall, teaching was effective.” (4.83); and “This presentation should be continued.” (5.00).

Keywords

• Breast Feeding
• Newborn Infant