In 2024, Keshni Lal, DNP, RN, SNIV spearheaded a quality improvement project aimed at enhancing exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) rates at hospital discharge within the Family Birth Center. Focused on implementing uninterrupted skin-to-skin contact (SSC) within the first hour of life post-cesarean delivery, the initiative addressed a significant practice gap affecting breastfeeding outcomes.
Guided by the Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) paradigm, Keshni collaborated with an interdisciplinary team of pediatricians, anesthesiologists, lactation consultants, and nurses to develop comprehensive training and workflows. This included pre- and post-tests, mock OR simulations, and live workflow sessions. By ensuring mothers and infants bonded immediately after delivery, the project fostered early breastfeeding success and maternal confidence.
The project achieved an impressive 85% EBF rate at discharge, surpassing the initial goal of 80%. Furthermore, 100% of eligible mothers and infants experienced SSC in the operating room. These outcomes highlighted the critical role of SSC in supporting breastfeeding success and fostering healthier communities. By prioritizing uninterrupted SSC and deferring non-essential care, the project demonstrated how early bonding supports natural newborn behaviors and long-term breastfeeding success.