Breast Milk Quality Improvement Bundle for Very Low Birth Weight Neonates

Abstract

Purpose: To assess the effect of a quality improvement (QI) bundle on improving breast milk output among very low birth weight (VLBW) mothers. Design: Before and after nonrandomized QI project. Sample: Mothers who delivered a VLBW infant in October and November 2015 were the prospective cohort. Those who delivered a VLBW infant in August and September 2015 were the retrospective cohort. The QI bundle consisted of early expression of milk, use of breast pumps, frequent expressions, videos, and regular counseling. This bundle was done for the prospective cohort. Outcomes measures: Quantity of expressed breast milk on day 7. Results: There were 13 mothers in the retrospective cohort and 18 mothers in the prospective one. The mean birth weight (1297.80 and 1207.70 g, p = .19) and gestation (32.5 and 31.5 wk, p = .27) were similar. There was a significant increase in the milk output on day 7 in the prospective group 113.6 ± 45 vs 182 ± 63 mL (p = .001).