Dear Tracy Throckmorton in Oregon,
You are on the right track in questioning the use of hydrosalate formula vs.
mother's own human milk for infant post cardiac sx. Not being informed about
all the facts, I would give the mom a new list of questions to ask the
attendings.
1. Are all the assorted specialists aware of this mom's strong intention to
breastfeed ? Are they aware of the availability of BM for this baby? Mom's
previous experience?
2. What specific component in breastmilk are they worried about being digested?
Do they mean lactose (carbo) or do they have some new unpublished research
supporting the avoidance of a fat component in BM? (Don't really say
"unpublished" - just imply it)
3. At what point will they allow mom to start breastfeeding? How many days
after baby has tolerated the pregestimal?
It sounds like someone who remains a non-believer in breastmilk, or is still
stuck on that "lactose-intolerence after stressful event" myth has written
the feeding order. I'll bet that by the time this posting reaches you some
supportive physician or nnp has changed the feeding orders, because after 19
yrs working in NICUs no physician has come up with a research-based reason
not to use breastmilk when I ask them to.
This mother is so lucky to have your support during such a crisis in her life.
Carrie Edwards
Caroline Edwards RNC IBCLC
Atlantic City Medical Center-NICU
Atlantic City, NJ
609-441-8186
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