Lactation Consultant - Part-Time

The Lactation Consultant has specialized education and extensive experience in managing the needs and care of the breastfeeding family. Provides patient care using an understanding of age specific needs, addressing physiological, emotional, developmental, psychosocial and spiritual needs of patient and family. Uses a family centered approach from pre-conception through weaning to help mothers attain breastfeeding goals.

Conducts inpatient consults by contacting the patient's nurse, visiting the mother for history intake, assessing infant feeding and latch, and providing individualized feeding plans. Handles outpatient consults with history assessment, hands-on assistance to resolve problems, and care plans including follow-up and referrals. Manages phone consultations such as follow-ups for NICU mothers and helpline calls.

Functions as a member of the multidisciplinary health care team as a consultant, instructor, and mentor to other professionals and clients in hospital and community settings. Serves as a resource to nursing staff, leadership, medical staff, and works hand in hand with prenatal and postpartum providers. Supports hospital policies for exclusive breastfeeding and promotes education internally and externally.

Responsible for professional and self developmental activities, maintaining confidentiality, and acting as a professional role model. Identifies patient learning needs using age specific criteria and contributes evidence-based knowledge to curriculum. Supports performance improvement initiatives to promote quality patient care.