Connecticut WIC Program Manual
WIC 300-06 SECTION: Nutrition Services
SUBJECT: Postpartum Nutrition Education and Exit Counseling Federal Regulations: §246.11; FNS WIC Policy Memorandum 94-9 (21) Nutrition Services Standard: 8 POLICY Breastfeeding and postpartum women shall be assessed for and counseled on the following topics, including but not limited to:
• Breastfeeding benefits. • Strategies for successful lactation. • Accurate information on the harmful effects of alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs. • Benefits of and information on childhood immunizations. • The importance of maintaining appropriate nutrition practices. • Benefits of a daily supply of folic acid for women of childbearing age.
During the certification period provide a variety of opportunities (individual or group education sessions) to discuss the desired health outcomes for breastfeeding and non-breastfeeding postpartum women which are dependant on achieving the health determinants specific to her client category. Refer to the VENA Guidance Document: Appendix C for additional information on Health Outcome- based assessment:
http://www.nal.usda.gov/wicworks/Learning_Center/VENA/VENA_AppendixC_HealthOutcomes.pdf
A complete nutrition assessment is the foundation for assisting the client in achieving a positive/desired health outcome.
For example, the desired health outcome for breastfeeding women is: Achieves optimal health during the childbearing years and reduces the risk of chronic diseases.
The health determinants are:
• Receives on-going preventative health care including early postpartum care, • Achieves a desirable postpartum weight or BMI, • Remains free from nutrition or food-related illness, complications or injury, • Avoids alcohol, tobacco and illegal drugs, • Consumes a variety of foods and/recommended supplements to meet energy and nutrient requirements and breastfeeds her infant(s) successfully.
When indicated and prior to categorical termination from the WIC program, recommend/reinforce referrals to other health care providers/services.