The Rafael Lazatin Memorial Medical Center (RLMMC) recently wrapped a comprehensive three-day training aimed at enhancing newborn and maternal care across its services. From November 3 to 5, 2025, the hospital conducted sessions focusing on Essential Maternal and Newborn Care, Care for Small Babies, and Lactation Management. The initiative reflects RLMMC’s ongoing commitment to Mother-Baby Friendly Hospital practices and to equipping healthcare teams with the latest evidence-based approaches.
Training Overview and Objectives
The training program was designed to strengthen clinical skills and ensure standardized care for mothers and their newborns. Key objectives included improving routine newborn assessments, safe initiation and support of breastfeeding, and recognizing early signs of potential complications in both mothers and infants. By emphasizing essential maternal and newborn care, RLMMC aims to reduce birth-related risks and improve outcomes for families in its service area.
Essential Maternal and Newborn Care
Participants reviewed best practices in antenatal and intrapartum care, focusing on labor management, thermal care for newborns, and immediate postnatal support. The course emphasized clean delivery techniques, proper cord care, early identification of neonatal distress, and the importance of creating a mother-friendly environment in the hospital setting. Attendees practiced hands-on demonstrations using standardized checklists to reinforce consistency in care delivery.
Care for Small Babies
A dedicated module addressed the needs of low birth weight and preterm infants, who require careful monitoring and tailored interventions. Topics included temperature regulation, nutritional strategies for growth and development, and safe handling of small babies to minimize stress and injury. The training also covered apnea surveillance and safe sleep practices, aligning with global safety standards.
Lactation Management
A significant portion of the program focused on breastfeeding support and lactation management. Health professionals explored techniques to facilitate successful latch, manage common breastfeeding challenges, and provide evidence-based guidance to new mothers. The lactation component underscored the vital role of maternal nutrition, maternal confidence, and continuous post-discharge support for sustained breastfeeding success.
Participants and Impact
The three-day event drew a diverse group of hospital staff, including obstetric nurses, pediatric nurses, midwives, and lactation consultants. By participating in multidisciplinary discussions and practical sessions, attendees gained actionable skills ready to be integrated into daily patient care. RLMMC’s leadership emphasized that the training is part of the hospital’s broader strategy to implement Mother-Baby Friendly Hospital principles across all departments.
Future Outlook
RLMMC plans to evaluate the training outcomes through follow-up assessments and patient care audits. The hospital also intends to offer ongoing refreshers and advanced modules to keep staff aligned with evolving best practices in maternal and newborn health. By continuing education initiatives like this, RLMMC reinforces its role as a center of excellence for maternal and infant well-being in the community.
Why It Matters
Maternal and newborn health remains a critical focus for healthcare facilities worldwide. Training programs that integrate essential care, specialized attention to small babies, and lactation support are proven to improve outcomes and patient satisfaction. RLMMC’s three-day training demonstrates a proactive approach to workforce development, patient safety, and family-centered care, reinforcing its commitment to the health and future of mothers and their babies.
