I am hospital based LC that was asked to do a 1 page handout for nurses on
the Med/Surg floor about maintaining milk supply for hospitalized bfding
moms.  It is in the draft stage and I would love all you " wise ones " to
comment with revisions etc.  thanks in advance

Tip Sheet
Caring for the breastfeeding mother that is hospitalized

Ask the mother how/if she plans to maintain her milk supply while she is
separated from her nursing child.  There are only 2 medical
contraindications to breastfeeding – HIV and HTLV-I (human T-cell leukemia
virus type 1).  Most medications except for antimetabolities and drugs of
abuse are compatible with breastfeeding.

If she chooses to wean, provide her with conforming ice packs for the
breasts x 10-min q 2 hrs and ask MD for order for Motrin to reduce
inflammation and pain.  She may use a breast pump or manually express small
amts. of  milk to “ take the edge” off the pain when she feels necessary.
Most insurance companies will not cover the expense of use of electric
breast pump kit for use with weaning. (Approx. $80).

Does the child feed from a bottle with “ formula” or human milk?  This
answer may determine her options.  If the baby has never had a bottle it
may be too much to expect being separated from the mother plus learning a
new way to eat.

Options if mother desires to maintain milk supply
1.  Rooming in - with another adult to care for child (crib provided from
maternity and bed for caretaker of child in room). OR
2. Child be brought to her to nurse off and on during her hospital stay
(may need to pump additionally to maintain q 2-4 hrs feeding pattern
depending on age of child). AND/OR
3. Using an electric hospital grade breast pump q 2-3 hrs to maintain
optimal milk supply.

The first option will optimally maintain the mother’s milk supply but may
not be preferred by the mother.

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