Nurses' knowledge of breastfeeding in a clinical setting.

Most obstetrical nurses subscribe to the "breast is best" theory. This project examined the current knowledge base of a sample of nurses and their practices relating to breastfeeding in three clinical settings. These study findings reveal that many nurses need to update their knowledge of those practices found to encourage successful breastfeeding. Only seven of 16 questions were answered correctly by more than 50 percent of the nurses surveyed. Areas of adequate knowledge included positioning, breastfeeding frequency, infant suckling patterns, and the importance of night feedings. Areas of inadequate knowledge included timing of the baby at the breast, milk production, use of glucose water, and the use of nipple shields.