Contemporary Childbirth Education Models

Since the 1960s, childbirth education advocates have attempted to persuade pregnant women that educational preparation for labor and birth is an essential component of the transition to motherhood. Initially, pregnant women who were seeking unmedicated births as a refuge from the inhumane childbirth treatments of the mid‐20th century embraced this view. However, with the changing childbirth climate, including a growing preference for medicated birth, scheduled inductions, and cesarean sections, attendance has diminished and childbirth education finds itself at a crossroads. Commonly used childbirth education models/organizations and several new emerging models along with the available research literature and recommendations for clinical practice and research are presented.     

Evidence Regarding Relationship Between Breastfeeding and Breast Cancer Remains Unclear

Yang L, Jacobsen KH. A systematic review of the association between breastfeeding and breast cancer. J Womens Health 2008;17:1635–45.     

Poststroke Shoulder Pain: Inevitable or Preventable?

Cerebral vascular accident or stroke is recognized as the leading cause of disability in the United States; consequently, it is important that all healthcare professionals working with this population develop competency of care to promote functional recovery. One of the most profound effects of stroke is upper‐extremity dysfunction. With correct handling, proper positioning, and ongoing patient‐caregiver education, healthcare professionals can positively influence upper‐extremity recovery and prevention of poststroke shoulder pain. In doing so, they will help patients avoid the mass effect that pain can impart on daily routines. The purposes of this article are to describe poststroke shoulder pain, discuss possible causes of shoulder pain, and detail best practices nurses can use to prevent or minimize poststroke shoulder pain.