A study published in Nursing Reports shows that the Lactation Assessment Tool (LAT) provides a reliable method for assessing and improving latch, even with novice users of the tool, showing promise for the expansion of access to lactation care and giving hope for families facing challenges with breastfeeding.

The Lactation Assessment and Comprehensive Intervention Tool (LAT) is a standardized tool designed to help lactation support providers to evaluate breastfeeding positioning and latch in order to increase the transfer of milk and alleviate any pain experienced by the breastfeeding individual. In contrast to latch assessment tools which use numeric scoring systems, the LAT outlines provides a detailed assessment and points to way to appropriate corrective interventions.

Although the effectiveness of the LAT has already been demonstrated in a study in which experienced midwives used the LAT to reduce pain and improve healing, this study supports the LAT’s reliability and ease-of-use even among novice nursing students.

The LAT can be used clinically to guide nurses and other lactation care providers in assessing and providing corrective interventions for breastfeeding dyads.