Simulations to Enhance Breastfeeding/Chestfeeding Competencies - Workshop 2

Speaker(s): Bonnie L. Higgins

This presentation will include four simulations to meet the competency-based learning in the Baby Friendly USA (BFUSA) guidelines. BFUSA emphasizes ensuring direct care providers possess the necessary knowledge, skills, and attitudes to support breastfeeding effectively. Our training simulations are designed to equip health care providers with foundational skills for engaging and supporting families with breast/chest feeding.

Simulations goals
• Create a safe and controlled setting for providers to practice their skills without fear of negatively impacting a patient.
• Allow providers to gain confidence in their ability to provide comprehensive lactation support and manage common challenges.
• Provide valuable hands-on learning experiences, especially for new providers who may have limited opportunities to practice breastfeeding management during clinical rotations.

Simulation Scenarios:
1. Scenario Title: Weight loss with high bilirubin (DHM use)
2. Scenario Title: 36-week twins, one in NICU one rooming in
3. Scenario Title: The Sleepy Infant
4. Scenario Title: Difficult/No latch (same sex couple)

These simulations will enhance learners to take a feeding history, troubleshoot latch on difficulties, start a pumping session, plot out NEWT, utilize DHM, supplement using alternative feeding methods, discuss late preterm feeding behaviors, utilize nipple shields, assess chest/breasts, and hand expression.

Target duration: 10-minute simulation: 15-minute debrief

Debriefing sessions are crucial for reinforcing learning, reflecting on performance, and applying best practices. Past participant reflections:

• “I liked the opportunities to talk through the different scenarios”
• “I gained extra tools in my breastfeeding toolbox”
• “I feel more confident in the care that I give”