The Effect of Theory-Based Care on Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy, Anxiety and Breast Milk Release

Abstract

Objective: The effect of nursing care provided according to Dennis’ breastfeeding self-efficacy theory on breastfeeding self-efficacy, anxiety, and breast milk secretion was evaluated. Methods: In this quasi-experimental study, 60 mothers in the first week postpartum were examined. The mothers and their supporters in the Dennis Theory-Based Nursing Care group were trained. Before the training, mothers were given the personal information form and the breastfeeding diary form to be filled out for 15 days. The perception of breastfeeding self-efficacy of mothers was evaluated using the “Postpartum Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scale”. Their anxiety was determined using the “State Anxiety Scale”, and breast milk release was assessed using the “Daily Form for Baby’s Adequate Nutrition”. The parameters were measured on the first day and 15 days after the training. Routine hospital standard nursing care was provided to the mothers in the control group. Results: The number of formulas given by mothers in the Dennis Theory-Based Nursing Care group to their babies was significantly lower than the number of formulas given by the mothers in the control group (Z=–0.90, p