Reliability of the Lactation Assessment Tool for Breastfeeding
Author Information
Author(s): Julie Grady, Anna Blair, Kajsa Brimdyr, Karin Cadwell
Primary Institution: Curry College
Hypothesis
The study aims to assess the inter-rater reliability of the Lactation Assessment Tool (LAT) among novice and expert assessors.
Conclusion
The Lactation Assessment Tool is a reliable instrument for both trained novices and experts in assessing breastfeeding positioning and latch.
Supporting Evidence
- The LAT tool showed acceptable internal consistency with Cronbach’s alpha scores ranging from 0.735 to 0.799.
- Novice assessors improved their reliability scores over the course of the assessments.
- Experts consistently achieved high reliability scores, indicating the tool's effectiveness.
Takeaway
This study shows that both new and experienced nurses can use a special tool to help mothers breastfeed better, which can make breastfeeding easier and less painful.
Methodology
Twenty participants, including nine nursing students and eleven experts, assessed four videos of breastfeeding dyads using the LAT after a training session.
Potential Biases
Potential selection bias due to the convenience sampling method.
Limitations
The study's convenience sampling may limit generalizability, and the assessment was conducted via video rather than in-person.
Participant Demographics
Participants included nine nursing students and eleven self-identified experts with diverse backgrounds in lactation.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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