Evaluation of a breastfeeding assessment score in a diverse population.

A previous study performed in a predominately suburban population developed a breastfeeding assessment score (BAS) that was designed to predict, prior to hospital discharge, those mothers who would discontinue breastfeeding within the first 10 days of age. The purpose of the present study was to assess the BAS in a more diverse population. Patients were solicited from 3 urban hospitals serving patients primarily supported by public funding.

A breast-feeding assessment score to evaluate the risk for cessation of breast-feeding by 7 to 10 days of age.

Objectives: To develop a succinct and comprehensive breast-feeding assessment score (BAS) to accurately identify infants at risk for early cessation of breast-feeding before initial hospital discharge.

Study Design: Mothers who intended to breast-feed their infants were solicited from 9 suburban hospitals. Two detailed data forms covering 107 items were completed before hospital discharge.