As a Lactation Consultant, you will play a vital role in providing support and guidance to breastfeeding mothers and their families. With your expertise and compassionate approach, you will empower mothers to successfully breastfeed and foster a positive bonding experience with their infants. You will practice within the framework defined by the IBCLE Code of Ethics, the Clinical Competencies for IBCLC practice, and the International Lactation Consultant Association (ILCA) Standards of Practice for IBCLCs. Supervised by the Director of Women’s Services, the Lactation Consultant is responsible for the delivery of patient care through breastfeeding assessment, diagnosis, planning, and evaluation. You will promote and support the implementation of the Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding as outlined by WHO/UNICEF and adhere to the International Code of Marketing of Breast Milk Substitutes.
Education:
Currently certified as Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) or Certified Lactation Educator (CLE) in process of IBCLC Certification.
Four-year college degree, preferably in a medical field but not required.
Licensures/Certification:
Current BLS certification.
LA City Fire Card within 30 days of hire.
Continuing Education and Professional Affiliations:
Keep up to date on continuing education credits required by ILCA to maintain IBCLC or CLE status.
Belong to a professional organization, ILCA or as decided by the Women’s Services Director.
EXPERIENCE:
One (1) year of previous experience working with lactating mothers providing breastfeeding assessment, consultation, and information to new mothers.
Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred.
Skills:
Demonstrates specialized knowledge and clinical expertise in breastfeeding and human lactation.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Strong organizational and documentation skills.
Key Responsibilities:
Patient Care and Assessment:
Perform comprehensive maternal, infant, and feeding assessments related to lactation, recognizing, and responding appropriately to deviations from the norm.
Develop and implement individualized feeding plans in consultation with the mother and the healthcare team.
Provide up-to-date, evidence-based information regarding the mother’s use of medications (over the counter & prescribed), alcohol, tobacco, and street drugs during lactation, and their potential impact on milk production and child safety.
Select appropriate breastfeeding-related supplies (e.g., nipple shields) and oversee and organize breast pump usage and rental (if applicable).
Support and Education:
Provide holistic, evidence-based breastfeeding support and care for women, children, and families.
Offer telephone advice and support for mothers following discharge from VPH.
Ensure continuity of care by providing information about support resources in the community.
Support hospital employees who are breastfeeding; maintain the employee lactation lounge.
Provide education for women, families, healthcare professionals, and the community about breastfeeding and human lactation. Plan, teach, and evaluate classes for expectant and newly breastfeeding mothers and actively participate in staff education.
Collaboration and Policy Implementation:
Collaborate with other disciplines to ensure high-quality patient care delivery.
Participate in the development and implementation of policies that protect, promote, and support breastfeeding and breast milk intake.
Participate in Quality Improvement initiatives. Promote and support the successful implementation and sustainability of the Baby-Friendly USA 10 Steps to Successful Breastfeeding and adhere to the International Code of Marketing of Breast Milk Substitutes.
Attend and actively participate in VPH staff meetings and participate appropriately in communication and decision-making activities relating to infant feeding practices.
Documentation and Compliance:
Keep clear, accurate, contemporaneous records, documenting in patients’ medical records or nursing notes as required.
Demonstrate excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Strictly always adhere to HIPAA regulations.
Key Responsibilities:
Patient Care Excellence: Champion a positive patient experience, ensuring high standards of care and safety.
Team Leadership: Mentor and support staff, fostering a collaborative and efficient work environment.
Operational Management: Oversee scheduling, resource availability, and staff assignments to ensure smooth operations.
Communication & Collaboration: Facilitate clear communication between patients, families, staff, and physicians.
Performance Improvement: Participate in quality initiatives and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.
