Research & Practice
Strengthening Lactation Support For Small and Sick Newborns
Neonatal mortality remains a global health priority. Approximately 98 percent of neonatal deaths happen in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Small and sick newborns (SSNs) account for most of these neonatal deaths; SSN are infants born preterm (< 37 weeks gestation), who are small for their gestational age, have a low birth weight (< 2,500 g birth weight), and require hospitalization after birth or are born with an illness. In 2020, the WHO released guidance for neonatal wards to address the unique healthcare needs of small and sick newborns, but there is not a universal, globally adaptable training program designed to inform healthcare providers in neonatal units on how to implement this guidance. This project responds to the call to action to enhance training for healthcare staff in the neonatal unit.
After a thorough literature review (peer reviewed research, gray literature, and clinical protocols) and research on change management strategies, evidence-based learning modules were drafted.
The deliverables for this project include a training guide template for 14 evidence-based learning modules, complete with guided reflections, learning activities, and additional learning resources for neonatal unit staff and parents. Additionally, there are 14 accompanying evaluation checklists for an expert external audit team or internal hospital-based audit team to verify staff competency. The learning module templates will need to be adapted by staff in each hospital to include local facility policies where noted.
The learning modules will be reviewed by an expert panel of healthcare, nutrition, and lactation professionals and utilized by PATH in their USAID funded project in Kenya as part of the implementation process of their Mother-Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative Plus program.
Materials Available
Project Type(s): MPH Practicum, PH Concentration Poster
Author(s): Evelyn Morris
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2022
Adviser(s):