Problem and Problem Statement: In 2007, two new sub-objectives were add to the Healthy People 2010 breastfeeding objective (16-19) related to exclusive breastfeeding at 3 and 6 months.  Statistics from 2000-2004 indicate the sub-objectives for ever-breastfed in the early postpartum and at three and six months are not being met, especially among African American mothers. Little is known regarding exclusive breastfeeding trends and reasons mothers choose to breastfeed exclusively or to supplement.
Research Questions: 1). What is the rate of exclusive breastfeeding  at hospital discharge, 1-2 weeks, 1, 2, 3 and 6 months among mothers who have declare an intent to breastfeed when admitted for labor at a large urban community hospital. 2) Is there a relationship between mothers’ commitment to breastfeeding and the length of time they exclusively breastfeed?
Literature review: While the number of mothers initiating breastfeeding continues to rise, national statistics and professional experiences indicate mothers do not continue to breastfeed for the recommended length of time. Additionally, maternal motivation and their early experiences directly impact how long they will continue breastfeeding.  With an understanding of maternal motivation and desires, it is important to implement evidence-based practices known to promote and support breastfeeding.
Methodology
                        Design: Descriptive, exploratory surveys.
                        Sample procedures: All mothers who have declared intent to breastfeed will be asked to participate in the study when the home visit nurses seek consent for a home visit. Mothers will continue in the study until they indicate they have stopped breastfeeding or until 6 months post-birth. 50 to 100 mothers will be recruited per month.
                        Data gathering strategies: Before discharge mothers will complete the first set of surveys assessing maternal commitment to breastfeeding, maternal perceptions of breastfeeding support received from the labor and delivery nurses, and details of their first breastfeeding experience. During the home visit at 1-2 weeks mothers will complete surveys on maternal perception of breastfeeding support from the postpartum nurses, their current breastfeeding status, their perceptions of the breastfeeding experience and reasons for supplementing or discontinuing breastfeeding if applicable. The on-line surveys completed at 1, 2, 3 and 6 months will continue to assess mothers’ current breastfeeding status and experience, and their perceptions of breastfeeding.
Data analysis: Data to answer question 1 will be analyzed using descriptive statistics and measures of central tendency. Correlation statistics will be used to assess the relationship between mother’s commitment to breastfeeding and the length of time she exclusively breastfeeds.
Results: Results will be available at time of presentation.
Interpretation: Will be available at time of presentation.
Implications for nursing practice/future research: Nurses in all maternity areas need to be champions for breastfeeding and provide breastfeeding opportunities. Practices in labor and delivery and on the postpartum unit may significantly impact a mother-infant dyad’s success with and duration of breastfeeding. Nurses need to be consistent with their breastfeeding advice and support. Additionally, evidence-based practices known to enhance breastfeeding exclusivity and duration need to be implemented.