Avaliação do conhecimento de profissionais da saúde acerca da amamentação e elaboração de protocolo

This descriptive-exploratory study with a quantitative approach aimed to assess the prior knowledge of a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (Neonatal ICU) team about the importance of breastfeeding; to elaborate a protocol on the main problems faced in breastfeeding and its appropriate management; to train the Neonatal ICU team to care for lactating women; and to know the main problems that may arise during breastfeeding. It was evident that after professional training through the protocol, the knowledge of the nursing team regarding the importance and encouragement of breastfeeding changed, but there was still divergence in assertive conducts for the management of problems related to breast-feeding. It has been concluded that it is extremely important for the nursing team to be constantly updated and to have knowledge and strategies about breastfeeding, contributing to the protection, promotion and support of breastfeeding.