About this role
Job Functions
01. Breastfeeding Assessment
Coordinates and completes assessment of the breastfeeding dyad in the hospital and by phone to positively impact quality outcomes. Collects pertinent information and breastfeeding history related to the physical, psychological, and social condition of each patient and family. Identifies knowledge and skill gaps, areas of concern, and acknowledges diversity in family lifestyles and cultural backgrounds, understanding patient and family feelings, attitudes, and beliefs.
02. Breastfeeding Education
Coordinates, evaluates, and completes breastfeeding teaching of the mother and family in the hospital and by phone. Provides information based on needs assessment and evidence-based practice using principles of adult learning. Confirms understanding through patient acknowledgment and return demonstration. Reviews, revises, and updates patient educational materials and distributes handouts when appropriate.
03. Breastfeeding Management Support
Provides breastfeeding management support for patient care delivery in the hospital and by phone according to patient desires. Analyzes situations critically and makes clinical decisions integrating breastfeeding knowledge and available resources. Uses effective time management to support patients in the Maternity Center, NICU, other hospital units, and through telephone support.
04. Staff Education and Support
Provides education and support to hospital staff and physician practices. Acts as a role model to encourage consistent lactation support and patient care. Identifies knowledge deficits, assesses staff breastfeeding interventions, mentors new lactation and maternity staff and students, delivers in-services, and maintains educational resources.
05. Documentation
Assumes primary responsibility for documenting lactation support and patient progress. Documents clearly and precisely in the patient's chart, demonstrates knowledge of documentation regulations, and records examination findings, concerns, breastfeeding history, needs assessment, plans, and follow-up. Updates documentation tools to improve care coordination.
06. Breastfeeding Equipment and Procedures
Demonstrates knowledge and skill regarding breastfeeding equipment and procedures. Maintains familiarity with hospital and rental breast pumps, including assembly, cleaning, troubleshooting, and current product information. Educates patients on breastfeeding support devices, including:
- Breast shells
- Nipple shields
- Hydrogel pads
Discusses advantages and disadvantages and provides appropriate recommendations.
07. Department Improvement Initiatives
Supports and facilitates departmental improvement initiatives. Coordinates the breast pump rental station with the manager and administrative assistant. Identifies and communicates risk management issues, develops strategies to improve team competency and patient care, participates in protocol development, and collaborates professionally with other departments.
08. Professional Development
Demonstrates continued learning by:
- Attending professional conferences
- Completing home study modules
- Reading relevant publications
- Staying current with recommendations regarding diet, medications, chemicals, and treatments affecting lactation
09. Safety
Maintains a safe environment by:
- Using safe transfer techniques and proper body mechanics
- Following standard precautions and isolation procedures
- Following National Patient Safety Goals
- Using approved abbreviations only
- Providing age-appropriate care based on developmental needs
10. Other Requirements
Physical Requirements: As defined by Occupational Safety/OMS.
- Required: Graduate of an accredited nursing school
2. Required: International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) or working toward certification (current Certified lactation consultant)