Increasing early exposure to mother's own milk in premature newborns

Objective Increase the proportion of <= 33 weeks newborns exposed to mother's own milk (MOM) oral care by 12 h of age by 20% over 2 years to support a healthier microbiome. Study design We implemented interventions to support early expression of colostrum and reliable delivery of resultant MOM to premature newborns. Statistical process control charts were used to track progress and provide feedback to staff. Proportions of newborns exposed to MOM by 12 h were compared relative to baseline. Results There were 46, 66, and 46 newborns in the baseline, implementation, and sustainability periods, respectively. The primary outcome improved from 48% to 61% in the implementation period (relative change 1.27, 95% CI 0.89, 1.81, p = 0.2), to 69% in sustainability period (relative to baseline 1.45, 95% CI 1.02, 2.08, p = 0.03). Conclusion An interdisciplinary team-based, multicycle, quality improvement intervention resulted in increased rates of early exposure to MOM.

Automated summary

An interdisciplinary team-based, multicycle quality improvement intervention led to an increased proportion of newborns exposed to mother's own milk early.