Defining Lactation Acuity to Improve Patient Safety and Outcomes

• Published in: Journal of human lactation 2011-05, Vol.27 (2), p.163-170
• Main Author: Mannel, Rebecca
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Breast Feeding - statistics & numerical data; Female; Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; Health Promotion - methods; Humans; Infant Nutritional Physiological Phenomena; Infant, Newborn; Intensive Care, Neonatal - methods; Lactation; Mothers - education; Nursing; Patient Education as Topic; Postnatal Care - methods; Quality of Health Care; Safety Management - methods; United States
• ISSN: 0890-3344; 1552-5732
• DOI: 10.1177/0890334410397198

While substantial evidence exists identifying risks factors associated with premature weaning from breastfeeding, there are no previously published definitions of patient acuity in the lactation field. This article defines evidence-based levels of lactation acuity based on maternal and infant characteristics. Patient acuity, matching severity of illness to intensity of care required, is an important determinant of patient safety and outcomes. It is often used as part of a patient classification system to determine staffing needs and acceptable workloads in health care settings. As acuity increases, more resources, including more skilled clinicians, are needed to provide optimal care. Developing an evidence-based definition of lactation acuity can help to standardize terminology, more effectively distribute health care staff resources, encourage research to verify the validity and reliability of lactation acuity, and potentially improve breastfeeding initiation and duration rates.