Certified Lactation Consultant (PRN)

Purpose of this Position

To provide support for the breastfeeding mother and baby through assessment, guidance, instruction and education in successful breastfeeding techniques. They will provide one on one education and guidance in breast health and breast care for all mothers on the OB unit. They will maintain a Lactation Help Line for calls from mothers concerning breastfeeding. Also works closely with the staff of the mother-baby unit by providing up-to-date education of advances in breastfeeding information. Provides additional education support as the Childbirth Class Educator, Breastfeeding Class Instructor and Nurse Educator for staff on an as needed basis.

Job Duties/Responsibilities

• Uses nursing process to assess, plan, implement, and evaluate the mother-baby breastfeeding relationship as it pertains to establishment of lactation and potential feeding problems.

• Establishes and maintains communication, and utilizes teaching opportunities to provide for the specific learning need of each breastfeeding mother/infant and OB nursing staff.

• Education and follow-up of breast care of all mothers on maternity unit and consultations for BVHA associates as requested.

• Collaborates with DME Manager to provide appropriate supplies and equipment and maintains availability of rental breast pumps and supplies for the breastfeeding mother.

• Maintains Lactation Hot-Line and returns calls in a timely manner.

• Displays Service Excellence as evidenced by practicing the mission, vision, and values of the organization to promote patient satisfaction.

• Complies with organizational policies, procedures, and practices to ensure quality job performance and hospital compliance.

• Runs breastfeeding support groups and responsible for seeing outpatient consults.

Required Qualifications

• RN or Registered Dietitian required
• Previous experience in lactation services
• Certification as Lactation Counselor (CLC) or International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) within 2 years of hire
• Positive service-oriented interpersonal and communication skills required
• Knowledge of the principles of growth and development over the life span and ability to assess data reflective of the patient status
• Bachelor's Degree preferred
• Certification as Childbirth Educator preferred

Physical Demands

This position requires a full range of body motion with intermittent walking, lifting, bending, climbing, squatting, kneeling, twisting, sitting and standing. This position is classified “at risk” for possible occupational exposure to blood borne pathogens (HBV, HIV, etc.).