I like to give parents who are having a problem with breastfeeding a log
sheet.  It is for recording feeds, wets and poops.  The paper has some
averages at the top and guidelines for colours of stool (ie progression
from black/green, brown, browish yellow to yellow.)  I usually first get
mums on day 2, 3 or 4 (24 hours after discharge) but sometimes later
when there is a problem.

The log is one day per page with the page divided into 24 boxes with the
times from 7 am - 6 am.  This shows the clusters nicely and the longer
stretches.  I suggest watching the baby for cues and just recording the
approximate time of feeding in the nearest box.  I sometimes suggest
they look at the first 12 hours (daytime) to assess the combination of
diapers and feeds to decide if frequent feedings are needed during the
night or if it is okay to let baby sleep.  I like this log sheet because
parents can write down as many feedings as they have each 24 hours.

I also tell them that once they are getting at least two large yellow
poops, stop bothering with the sheets.

I find these sheets very helpful for babies who are not doing well at
the moment.  Eg. not latching frequently/refusing the breast and needing
supplements or if supply is not sufficient at the moment.  Mum can add
in the amount and type of supplements, the timing of pumpings etcetera.
It helps me know how things are going each day so I can make suggestions
about feeding.

Janet Vandenberg RN, BScN, IBCLC
Public Health Nurse
Ontario, Canada

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