To support and promote “breastfeeding-friendly” environments nurses can:
Endorse the World Health Organization recommendation for exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months. Advocate for policies that support breastfeeding-friendly work environments, public “mother and baby” areas for breastfeeding, and 24-hour help resources for mothers who are having difficulties in breastfeeding. Endorse local peer support breastfeeding programs. Promote community action for support of breastfeeding. Provide emotional and physical support to breastfeeding mothers. Endorse the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI) and assist in implementation of the “Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding”. Encourage health care facilities to provide breastfeeding training for nurses with education appropriate to their role in order to develop the knowledge and skills necessary to support breastfeeding mothers and aid in the prevention and management of problems.