Amy was interested in what others do as far as warmlines, etc.

Our hospital is fairly new but we established a warmline imediately. It is
24/7/365 so you can imagine how many calls I get on holidays. We don't
promote it in the community but word has gotten out. I have gotten many calls
from moms who delivered as far as an hour and a half away. Certainly it is
available to anyone who needs it-and I feel that many mothers have gotten
support that maybe would have weaned otherwise. My knowledge has also
expanded considerably as a result. The hardest thing to keep up with is
documentation. Monthly average is 20-25 calls.

One of our staff nurses (who is trained and has extended knowledge) also does
three follow up calls-2-3 days post d/c, 2-3 weeks postpartum and six weeks.
This seems to have an effect on duration rates and is something that I track.
We call all bf moms who deliver at the hospital and are able to do this
because we are small. Very standard, questions are asked regarding feedings,
milk supply etc. Difficult issues are referred out to the warmline or
physicians.

There is a benefit to tracking calls and rates. I turn productivity reports
in monthly to at least two adminstrative officers. They are more educated on
the need for services and I am able to get a number of things approved that
would otherwise be laughed out of the organization. If anyone wants or needs
details, I would be happy to share.

Denise Altman, RN, IBCLC, LCCE
Columbia, SC

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