Lactation Consultant

Overview

Under direction, to perform work providing clinical expertise and resource to staff, patients and families for the provision of breastfeeding, lactation education and education for the mother/baby couplet. Utilizes the nursing process and all services provided are based on evidence-based practice along with the standards of care for maternal child nursing.

Responsibilities

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES(*Essential Functions)

Provides individual/group counseling and education to new mothers and their families related to lactation and infant nutrition, the advantages of breastfeeding, the medical or other problems that might be encountered during nursing, and to explain the nutritional needs of nursing women and babies.

Conducts assessments of mothers and infants at high risk for breastfeeding complications and provides counseling either in person or over the phone.

Determines physical or other impediments to successful breastfeeding; develops a care plan and conducts follow-up assessments, including monitoring weight and health of the baby to ensure that both mother and child are healthy; documents assessments and notes progress in the file; and when necessary, refers mothers to qualified medical professionals.

Develops, maintains and updates policies and procedures for lactation support based on evidence-based practice, which facilitate achieving and optimal environment for immediate and long term breastfeeding success.

Plans, teaches and evaluates lactation classes for expectant and new breastfeeding mothers in conjunction with the prepared childbirth program.

Qualifications

JOB SPECIFICATIONS(Minimum Requirements)KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Current CPR certification and neonatal resuscitation certification is required.
• Certified Lactation Specialist with completion of International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) certification with 18 months of hire or promotion into the position.

EDUCATION

• Associates Nursing Preferred
• High School Diploma or GED Required

CERTIFICATION AND LECENSURES

• Current CPR certification and neonatal resuscitation certification is required.
• Certified Lactation Specialist with completion of International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) certification with 18 months of hire or promotion into the position.

STANDARDS OF BEHAVIORMeets the Standards of Behavior as outlined in Personnel Policy and Procedure #1, Employee Relations Code.CONFIDENTIALITY/HIPAA/CORPORATE COMPLIANCEDemonstrates knowledge of procedures for protecting and maintaining security, confidentiality and integrity of employee, patient, family, organizational and other medical information. Understands and supports the commitment of Methodist Hospitals in adhering to federal, state and local laws, rules and regulations governing ethical business practices for healthcare providers.DISCLAIMER - The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. The statements are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required.