Breastfeeding Principles and Practice

Breastfeeding as a field of expertise is ever-evolving within the health-care system. Nurses assist childbearing persons and babies with initiation of lactation and continuation of breastfeeding, including problems with latching and milk transfer, low milk production or inadequate intake. Students examine the Baby Friendly Initiative and explore sociocultural, developmental, physiological and psychological determinants of breastfeeding within the context of health promotion frameworks and family-centered care. Through lecture, discussion and simulation-based learning activities, students gain insight into common conditions that lead to breastfeeding challenges, as well as the additional needs of preterm and high-risk infants and families. This course may be open to RPNs, registered dieticians, Registered Midwives or other health-care professionals; please contact the program coordinator.