Steps to successfully breastfeed the premature infant.

The birth of a premature infant causes emotional upheaval for parents. They often wonder what they can do to help their infant during the critical newborn period. Providing breast milk is one of the most important physiologic benefits a mother can give her premature infant. The advantages of breast milk are numerous. It is the responsibility of those who care for premature infants and their families to provide parents with the support they need to supply the best possible nutrition for their infant. Breastfeeding a premature infant can challenge both the mother and her health care team, however. Infants should be assessed individually for readiness to proceed through the steps leading to successftil breastfeeding. From establishing a milk supply to putting the baby to the breast, parents rely on the nurse for information, instruction, and encouragement. This article identifies obstacles to breastfeeding the premature infant and offers a step-by-step approach for promoting successful breastfeeding in the NICU.