RLMMC Hosts Comprehensive Newborn and Maternal Care Training
The Rafael Lazatin Memorial Medical Center (RLMMC) recently hosted a three-day intensive training program focused on Essential Maternal and Newborn Care, Care for Small Babies, and Lactation Management from November 3 to 5, 2025. The event underscores RLMMC’s commitment to elevating the standard of care for mothers and their newborns, aligning with the broader goal of making the hospital a Mother-Baby Friendly Hospital in the region.
Training Objectives and Scope
The program covered a wide range of topics designed to empower health professionals with practical skills and up-to-date guidelines. Essential Maternal and Newborn Care sessions addressed antenatal and postnatal practices, recognizing risk factors, and promoting family-centered care. Care for Small Babies focused on the specific needs of low birth weight and preterm infants, including monitoring vital signs, thermoregulation, feeding strategies, and early stimulation techniques. Lactation Management sessions emphasized supporting breastfeeding, managing common challenges, and fostering effective communication with new mothers to encourage exclusive breastfeeding where possible.
Hands-On Training and Simulation
Participants engaged in hands-on practice using simulation models and real-world case scenarios to reinforce critical competencies. The practical approach aimed to improve immediate newborn care post-delivery, newborn resuscitation basics, proper cord care, warmth maintenance, and safe sleep practices. For maternal care, the training highlighted maternal mental health considerations, postpartum care protocols, pain management, and successful breastfeeding initiation in the hospital setting.
Who Attended and Collaborative Efforts
The three-day training welcomed a diverse group of healthcare professionals, including obstetricians, pediatricians, nurses, midwives, lactation consultants, and hospital support staff. RLMMC collaborated with regional health partners to ensure that the curriculum reflected current evidence-based practices and remained relevant to local needs. Attendees reported valuable networking opportunities, sharing experiences, and building a cohesive care team focused on mother and baby wellbeing.
Why This Training Matters
Effective maternal and newborn care is a cornerstone of improving health outcomes for mothers and their babies. By investing in comprehensive training, RLMMC is enhancing clinicians’ ability to identify at-risk patients, manage common complications, and support families through the early stages of life. Lactation support is a critical component, given its impact on newborn nutrition, immunity, and growth. The program also aligns with global health objectives that advocate for higher rates of exclusive breastfeeding and safer newborn care practices in hospital settings.
Looking Ahead: Building a Mother-Baby Friendly Hospital
RLMMC’s training initiative is part of a broader strategy to transform the hospital into a Mother-Baby Friendly Hospital. This status emphasizes family-centered care, evidence-based practices, and continuous professional development for staff. Future trainings are expected to expand on advanced topics such as neonatal intensive care practices, early skin-to-skin contact, and postpartum follow-up care, ensuring that mothers and babies receive comprehensive support from admission to discharge.
Participant Feedback and Impact
Participants praised the program for its clarity, practical relevance, and the opportunity to refine essential skills in a supportive learning environment. Many cited improved confidence in handling routine childbirth scenarios and a better understanding of lactation counseling strategies. Hospital leadership noted that the training would translate into safer deliveries, improved breastfeeding initiation rates, and stronger postnatal support for families in the community.
Conclusion
The RLMMC newborn and maternal care training demonstrates a proactive commitment to improving health outcomes through education and capacity-building. As hospitals worldwide strive to close gaps in maternal and newborn services, RLMMC’s approach serves as a model for integrated, evidence-based training that prioritizes both clinical excellence and compassionate care for mothers and their babies.
