Nurses' Perspectives on the Process of Attaining Baby-Friendly Designation

The Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative is a global initiative that aims to protect, promote, and support breastfeeding. This study explores and describes the process of attaining Baby-Friendly designation from nurses' perspectives. A purposive sampling design was used to recruit registered nurse participants in a large, safety-net, tertiary care facility. Data were collected via semistructured interviews and were analyzed using descriptive interpretative analysis. The following themes were revealed: Resistance, Culture, Investment in the Journey, Teamwork, and Source of Pride. Results indicate that comfortable yet antiquated practices led to fear of change and resistance. Initial culture shock was mediated by a successful education model, powerful experiences, and positive outcomes.