>
>I speculate that the difference in the outcomes in these two studies has
>very much to do with what is taught.  In the 1984 study "a short bedside
>teaching intervention" is used with success.  I think the key word is SHORT.
>I teach "survival skills" in the hospital.  That includes only what the mom
>needs to know to get BF off to a good start: positioning and latch
>techniques, frequency and pattern of BF, day/night confusion, signs of
>adequate intake/output, and the Breastfeeding Helpline number to call with
>questions.  I give handouts with a paragraph on each of these topics.


Hmmmmm....the 2001 study only lasted 30 minutes. That might still be
too long, I agree, Barb, but the topics you cover more or less echo
the topics in the study, and in fact you list more!
>
>I think we overload and overwhelm new moms when we attempt to give too much
>information at a time when they are not able to handle it.


I think that may be true - it's common sense.  But we need to know
more about what works and what doesn't work. I think it's likely to
be more complex than timing, more complex than content....

Heather Welford Neil
NCT bfc Newcastle upon Tyne UK

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