Lactation Specialist-PRN

About the role

The Lactation Specialist provides inpatient lactation support, education, and clinical guidance to breastfeeding parents and their infants. This role supports optimal breastfeeding outcomes through patient assessment, individualized care planning, staff collaboration, and evidence‑based lactation interventions. The specialist functions as a resource to nurses, physicians, and other healthcare team members, contributes to departmental education, and participates in the development of lactation‑related policies and quality initiatives. The role promotes consistent, family‑centered care and ensures comprehensive documentation of lactation assessments and patient progress.

Responsibilities

• Provides inpatient lactation consultations, breastfeeding assessments, and evidence‑based guidance for postpartum patients and infants.
• Supports high‑risk parent–infant dyads, including premature or medically complex infants.
• Demonstrates proficiency in fundamental breastfeeding techniques and management of uncomplicated lactation concerns.
• Develops and delivers breastfeeding education to parents in one‑on‑one settings or group sessions.
• Assists in evaluating and updating teaching materials used for antepartum and postpartum education.
• Offers telephone follow‑up support and counseling to breastfeeding families as needed.
• Collaborates with physicians, nurses, and allied health teams to develop coordinated lactation plans.
• Participates in interdisciplinary rounds and unit‑based initiatives related to maternal–infant care.
• Serves as a resource to staff regarding best practices and clinical standards for breastfeeding management.
• Assists in providing ongoing in‑service training for neonatal, obstetric, and pediatric nursing staff.
• Helps enhance clinical competency and consistent practice across inpatient units.
• Contributes to the development, implementation, and evaluation of departmental lactation policies and procedures.
• Participates in quality improvement initiatives and departmental committees.
• Assists with evaluating and maintaining breastfeeding equipment and supplies.
• Documents all patient assessments, teaching, interventions, and progress in the electronic medical record.
• Communicates relevant clinical and administrative information to departmental leadership.
• Follows all hospital safety protocols and infection control procedures.
• Reports equipment malfunctions, unsafe conditions, and any patient, staff, or visitor incidents promptly.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Associate’s degree in nursing, Health Education, Nutrition, or related healthcare field required.
• International Board‑Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) required OR must meet progression requirements:
  • Completion of a lactation educator training program (required upon hire).
  • Apply to sit for the IBCLC exam within 6 months of hire.
  • Successfully pass the IBCLC exam within 1 year of hire.
• AHA Basic Life Support (BLS) certification required.
• Valid RN license from Virginia or a reciprocal compact state will be considered.
• One year of Women & Infant clinical experience preferred.
• Prior experience providing breastfeeding or human lactation counseling preferred.
• Relevant experience in breastfeeding support, maternal–infant health, perinatal education, or an allied clinical role (e.g., LPN/LVN, doula, childbirth educator, RD/RDN, midwifery, public health, infant development) preferred.

Physical and Mental Requirements

• Constant (67‑100 % of workday) walking, standing, and use of arms and hands; frequent (34‑66 % of workday) bending, stooping, kneeling, and squatting.
• Ability to lift 35 lb and push/pull 20 lb.
• Audiovisual skills including color determination; ability to work in confined spaces and reach above/overhead.
• Critical thinking and analytical skills.
• Ability to multi‑task and communicate effectively with a multidisciplinary team.
• Capacity to cope with difficult situations and tolerate irregular hours, including evenings, nights, and weekends.
• Potential exposure to radiation, toxic chemicals, and bloodborne pathogens; must wear appropriate personal protective equipment.
• Clinical positions in Mary Washington Home Health and/or Hospice must meet driving requirements.
• Reasonable accommodations provided for qualified individuals with disabilities.

Compensation

Pay Range: $34.07 – $51.10