Evidence-based research underscores the importance of breastfeeding for the healthy development of late preterm infants, yet significant challenges can impede its success. This is a groundbreaking, problem-solving guide to the most effective techniques for breastfeeding this vulnerable population. Written for lactation consultants, NICU nurses, obstetrical nurses, and nurse-midwives, the book offers clear, simple, evidence-based solutions to the distinct breastfeeding difficulties affecting late preterm infants.
The guide describes the characteristics of late preterm infants and the physiological challenges-often invisible and overlooked by health care providers-caused by disturbances of respiratory, metabolic, neurologic, and immunologic functions. These problems are often exacerbated by poor breastfeeding and result in 13% of hospital readmissions by late preterm infants. The book examines maternal conditions that affect breastfeeding success and provides detailed, easy-to-follow instructions for the most effective breastfeeding techniques. It describes specific strategies health care professionals can take to overcome breastfeeding difficulties, including proper positioning and latch technique, the use of breast pumps and other helpful equipment, supplemental feedings, and more. Pictures that illustrate correct procedures clarify specific techniques, and user-friendly patient teaching guides further encourage successful breastfeeding. The book also supports the goals of many hospitals seeking to achieve Baby-Friendly Status, as well as the goals of the Multidisciplinary Guidelines for Care of Late Preterm Infants recently issued by the National Perinatal Association.

Key Features:
Comprises the only comprehensive guide specific to the breastfeeding issues of late preterm infants
Describes developmental challenges faced by late preterm infants
Provides detailed, easy-to-follow instructions for breastfeeding and techniques for overcoming difficulties
Offers clear, simple, evidence-based solutions that nurses, lactation consultants, and midwives can offer to mothers
Supports the goals of hospitals seeking Baby-Friendly Status
Part 1: Physiological Challenges that Undermine Successful Breastfeeding for the Late Preterm Infant
Part One Prologue
Special Characteristics of the Late Preterm Infant
Chapter 1: Defining the Late Preterm Infant
Chapter 2: Risk Factors for Late Preterm Births
Specific Physiological Challenges for the Late Preterm Infant
Chapter 3: Immature Neurological Development and Hypotonia
Chapter 4: Temperature Instability, Hypoglycemia, and Increased Metabolism
Chapter 5: Hyperbilirubinemia
Chapter 6: Unstable Respiratory Status
Chapter 7: Increased Risk for Infection
Maternal Conditions Affecting Breastfeeding Success
Chapter 8: Maternal Conditions Affecting Breast Milk Supply
Chapter 9: Maternal Self Esteem and Its Effect on Breastfeeding
Chapter 10: The Risks of Not Breastfeeding
Part 2: Conquer Breastfeeding Challenges for the Late Preterm Infant
Part Two Prologue
Setting the Stage for Successfully Breastfeeding the Late Preterm Infant
Chapter 11: Health Initiatives
Chapter 12: Early and Frequent Breastfeeding
Specific Strategies for Overcoming Breastfeeding Challenges
Chapter 13: Decrease Stimuli and Energy Expenditure
Chapter 14: Proper Positioning and Latch Technique
Chapter 15: Breast Compressions
Chapter 16: Nipple Shields
Chapter 17: Breast Pumps
Chapter 18: Hand Expression
Chapter 19: Supplemental Feedings
Encouragement for a Successful Breastfeeding Experience
Chapter 20: Overcoming Other Challenges
Chapter 21: Maternal Satisfaction and Breastfeeding Success: The Big Picture
Chapter 22: Putting It All Together. Summary of Important Highlights for Successful Breastfeeding for Late Preterm Infants
Appendixes
Appendix A: Late Preterm Feeding Algorithm
Appendix B: Sample Late Preterm Infant Initiative
Appendix C: Follow Up Care of the Breastfeeding Late Preterm Infant
Appendix D: Sample Patient Teaching Handout
Appendix E: Sample Late Preterm Infant Feeding Plan
Additional Resources for Nurse and Parents
Additional Reading
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