Overview of the Training
The Rafael Lazatin Memorial Medical Center (RLMMC) recently concluded a comprehensive three-day training program focused on Essential Maternal and Newborn Care, Care for Small Babies, and Lactation Management. Held from November 3 to 5, 2025, the sessions were designed to strengthen the hospital’s role as a Mother-Baby Friendly Hospital and to ensure that mothers and their newborns receive evidence-based, compassionate care from admission to discharge.
The event brought together obstetricians, pediatricians, nurses, midwives, lactation consultants, and support staff. By combining hands-on demonstrations with evidence-informed theory, RLMMC aimed to harmonize clinical practice with the latest recommendations for maternal and newborn health. The training aligns with national standards and international best practices, underscoring RLMMC’s commitment to safe, patient-centered care.
Key Focus Areas
Essential Maternal and Newborn Care
Participants explored the latest guidelines on prenatal assessment, intrapartum care, and postpartum support. Emphasis was placed on effective monitoring, early recognition of complications, and the promotion of skin-to-skin contact and breastfeeding initiation. The course highlighted the importance of informed consent, culturally sensitive communication, and respectful care during all maternal health services.
Care for Small Babies
The curriculum addressed the unique needs of preterm and small-for-gestational-age infants. Attendees reviewed thermoregulation, feeding strategies, and thermal care protocols designed to reduce hypothermia risk. Practical simulations covered respiratory support, up-to-date resuscitation techniques, and safe discharge planning tailored to newborns who require extended observation or specialized follow-up after leaving the facility.
Lactation Management
Lactation management sessions equipped clinicians with counseling techniques to support breastfeeding mothers. Topics included establishing effective latch, overcoming common breastfeeding challenges, and coordinating follow-up care with pediatric and maternal health services. The goal was to empower families with practical, evidence-based information that supports successful breastfeeding and long-term maternal well-being.
Benefits for Mothers and Babies
The training strengthens RLMMC’s capacity to provide continuous, high-quality care. Expectant mothers can anticipate more consistent guidance on prenatal preparation, labor, and the immediate postpartum period. Newborns stand to benefit from standardized care practices that promote thermal protection, early feeding, and timely detection of health concerns. For healthcare workers, the program offers an opportunity to refresh skills, share best practices, and reinforce teamwork across obstetric and neonatal units.
Mother-Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative
The sessions reflect RLMMC’s ongoing dedication to the Mother-Baby Friendly Hospital initiative, which prioritizes family-centered care, rooming-in policies, and lactation support. By fostering collaboration among departments, RLMMC aims to create a seamless experience for families during their hospital stay and to encourage positive health outcomes after discharge.
Looking Ahead
Following the training, RLMMC plans to implement enhanced care protocols, expand peer-to-peer training, and monitor progress through quality improvement metrics. The institution also envisions continuing education events to keep staff up-to-date with evolving best practices in maternal and newborn health. Families visiting RLMMC can expect a hospital environment that respects patient choices, prioritizes safety, and supports successful maternal-newborn interactions from admission to newborn care.
