Caring for breastfeeding mothers in disaster relief camps: A call to innovation in nursing curriculum

Abstract

During natural disasters, people are forced to flee their homes and resettle in temporary disaster relief camps (such as huts, tents, and transitional shelters) that are often located on barren ground, far from cities. Disaster relief camps are one of the most vulnerable settings where women are at risk of discontinuing their breastfeeding practices. A critical ethnographic study undertaken with the internally displaced mothers residing in disaster relief camps in Pakistan re- vealed that the availability of formal support from healthcare professionals is one of the key determinants that shape the breastfeeding experiences of the displaced mothers. Hence suggested the need for innovative strategies in the nurs- ing curriculum to build the capacity of nurses to provide culturally sensitive care to breastfeeding mothers affected by disaster and displacement. Considering these findings, it is recommended that nursing educational settings must in- clude courses on “caring for the vulnerable population during a disaster” at the baccalaureate, graduate, and post- graduate levels. The inclusion of these courses will foster nurses to understand the needs of the displaced community, identify the importance of making a difference through collaborative work, and take part in designing innovative interventions (surrounding health, housing, economic upliftment, and well-being) for the displaced communities. Moreover, onsite clinical experience in disaster relief camps is recommended. This will enhance nurses' competence, hands-on skills, knowledge, and cultural sensitivity while providing care to displaced mothers with a variety of clinical presentations and breastfeeding concerns. Continuing education sessions and seminars must be organized for nurses to update their knowledge about breastfeeding and facilitate evidence-based practice in the setting of disaster relief camps.