Knowledge Gaps in Breastfeeding According to Sociodemographic Characteristics of Nursing Personnel

Abstract

Introduction: Breastfeeding continues to be one of the most influential practices for ensuring maternal and child well-being. Nevertheless, its effective promotion frequently depends on the guidance offered by nursing personnel, who accompany mothers in key decision-making moments. This raises the question of how well-grounded the theoretical knowledge of these professionals truly is. Objective: To assess the level of essential breastfeeding knowledge among nursing personnel and examine its relationship with their sociodemographic characteristics. Methodology: A quantitative, descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted with 155 nursing professionals from a public healthcare institution. Data collection involved the validated Breastfeeding Knowledge Scale for Nursing (ECoLaE), complemented by a sociodemographic questionnaire that allowed a more detailed understanding of participants' personal and professional context. Results: Most participants were women under 40 years of age, many with personal or partner-related breastfeeding experience; however, this familiarity did not translate into solid conceptual mastery. Overall, 71% demonstrated a low level of knowledge and 29% a moderate level, with no participants classified in the high category. Although associations between knowledge and perceived confidence in breastfeeding counseling were not statistically significant, several discrepancies emerged between daily clinical practice and theoretical understanding. A moderate positive correlation between age and knowledge level was observed. Conclusions:The findings highlight an important training gap, underscoring the need to reinforce breastfeeding education as a fundamental component of nursing practice.