The two most important elements of providing professional breastfeeding
support are taking a complete history and performing a detailed physical
assessment. Yet, taking the time to take a history or observe a full
feeding can sometimes seem too lengthy a process when understaffed or
short on time. When these important items are not done, this can lead to
increased problems for the feeding dyad, heavier financial burdens for
both the family and the healthcare system, and emotional costs for
mother and baby. In this book, lactation consultant Denise Altman
discusses the information that should be obtained during the history
taking part of the patient interview. She shows how this information
offers triggers for close observation during the physical assessment
that helps the healthcare provider identify breastfeeding problems.
Examples, case studies, and sample forms are included to better show the
process. This book covers: - Cross-cultural communication -
Documentation and charting methods - Types of interview questions -
Maternal and infant history - Maternal and infant physical assessment -
Feeding assessment - Unique situations that affect breastfeeding:
piercings, abuse, NICU baby, multiples, and adoption - Critical thinking
skill