Identifying Feeding Cues in Infancy (SU)
Goal
The goal of this learning program is to help the learner to develop targeted assessment techniques and simple corrective strategies to assist the mother-baby couplet to independently achieve optimal latch and milk transfer in the first few days of life, even in situations where anatomical or behavioral issues impede optimal milk transfer.
Objectives
- Relate the three phases of social interaction to observable behaviors that facilitate or undermine the breastfeeding experience.
- Distinguish between the newborn’s signs of approach and signs of avoidance.
- Classify signs of hunger as early or late indicators of hunger.
- Recognize clinical indicators of effective and ineffective latch and milk transfer.
- Review indicators and consequence of poor latch and ineffective milk transfer.
- Identify principles for observing and assisting with a breastfeeding.
- When observing a breastfeeding couplet in the approach, interactive, or satiety phase, distinguish between reassuring and worrisome indicators that breastfeeding is going well.
- Describe techniques to help (if needed) the mother-baby couplet to achieve optimal latch.
- Choose a general strategy to resolve problems associated with ineffective latch or the reluctant nurser.