We do a computer chart review to learn actual documented feeds.  We record
the number of each.  From there, we plan to call all moms (who had at least
one documented breastfeed) at 6 weeks & at 12 weeks to ask how baby is being
fed at the time.  We are considering asking her about specific number of
feeds by each manner in the immediate previous 24 hours, 1 or 2 questions
about diapers, reason for quitting BFing if she did, a satisfaction question
& a couple of others.  Very short.  One page.  Less than 5 min on phone.  It
may provide enough info to lead us in a more appropriate direction for
future indepth info gathering.

Problem is, we need to have these calls made by an interpreter because most
of our moms are Spanish-only.  Another problem is,  I have learned from
several consult visits to our clinic, that some moms who, by choice or
chance, fed formula-only in the hospital, are breastfeeding fairly well a
week or two later.  Often, they are giving formula 2-3 x day & have an
apparent ample supply as shown by baby's gulping, leaking from the other
breast, etc, but mom is convinced she doesn't have enough because baby
"doesn't get full".  Another problem with expectations vs reality & poor BF
education.

Anyway, maybe we need to call a random, representative sample of all moms,
not just those who initiated in the hospital.  Contact is difficult:  25% if
we're very lucky.  Response to previous survey attempts by mail is awful.
Our population is extremely mobile

Suggestions from people trained in surveying, data gathering, will be most
appreciated.

Phyllis Adamson, IBCLC
[log in to unmask]
in same boat with Barbara Dudley

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