Results of Developing a Nursing Practice Model for Postpartum Mothers to Promote Breastfeeding: An Action Research

Abstract

2023, Thailand found exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months at 28.60 %. The objective was to report the results of developing a postpartum maternal practice model to promote breastfeeding. Practical educational methods in a provincial hospital in the northeastern region of Thailand, 14 informants used interviews, participatory observation, field notes, and record images. The data was analyzed using content analysis. The results of the study was found that the practice model for promoting breastfeeding indicated 3 themes: 1. the practice model for mothers and baby rooming in, the practice model has 6 sub-themes consisting of; (1) holding the baby, (2) putting the baby to the breast, (3) letting the baby suck on the nipple and areola, (4) removing the nipple from the baby’s mouth, (5) caring for baby after breastfeeding, and (6) solving nipple problems. 2. the practice model when mothers and baby are separated after rooming in, the practice model has 2 sub-themes consisting of; (1) having the mother visit the baby and (2) expressing breast milk for baby, and 3. Using herbs to increase breast milk. The results of this research are beneficial to nursing and midwifery practice, and the health team that takes care for postpartum mothers and form a foundation for further research relating to the study area. In addition, the results could be used for the evidence-based development the program of care for postpartum mothers.