Lactation Consultant

Schuylkill•Allentown, PA

11d•Onsite

About The Position

Functions to enhance the normal process of lactation and prevent, assess, and manage lactation problems in the inpatient setting. Focuses on the needs and concerns of breastfeeding mothers and infants, advocates for breastfeeding families, and works to prevent, recognize, and resolve breastfeeding difficulties while promoting improved breastfeeding outcomes. The role operates within the scope of practice defined by the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners (IBLCE), follows the standards of practice defined by the International Lactation Consultant Association, and adheres to organizational policies, procedures, and care guidelines. Provides lactation management and education in obstetrical and pediatric areas, including routine and high-risk or complicated clinical situations. Serves as a clinical expert and consultant to breastfeeding families and health care providers, and supports staff education and the development and evaluation of breastfeeding protocols. This is an onsite position at Lehigh Valley Hospital–Cedar Crest, with per diem evening coverage and a variable weekend/holiday rotation.

Requirements

Specialized Diploma RN.
Three years of experience in lactation counseling.
Ability to perform assessments and nursing functions acquired in a basic nursing preparation program.
Ability to create an environment that promotes learning for staff and families.
Ability to participate appropriately in communication and decision-making activities.
Knowledge of adult learning principles.
Knowledge of consulting methods, tools, and techniques.
Ability to plan, teach, and conduct education for health care providers.
Ability to communicate effectively with patients, families, physicians, and coworkers, while advocating for families.
Ability to lift and carry 40–50 pounds; job examples include pushing or pulling patients on beds or stretchers and lateral transfers.
Frequent to continuous standing and walking; patient transporters may walk 8–10 miles per shift.
May be required to kneel, bend, squat, and perform CPR, depending on role-specific activities.
American Heart Association Basic Life Support, State of Pennsylvania, required upon hire.
IBCLC (International Board Certified Lactation Consultant), State of Pennsylvania, required within 180 days.
Registered Nurse license, State of Pennsylvania, required upon hire.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in Nursing.
Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP), State of Pennsylvania, within one year.

Responsibilities

Orient new nursing staff to newborn feeding policy and practice guidelines.
Consult with an interdisciplinary team to develop, implement, and evaluate breastfeeding protocols.
Provide telephone information, counseling, and follow-up to pregnant and lactating women.
Provide breastfeeding assessment, support, and counseling to families in routine, high-risk, and complicated clinical situations in obstetrical and pediatric areas.
Serve as a clinical expert and consultant in the care of breastfeeding families.
Assist in developing breastfeeding-related policies and procedures.
Plan, teach, and conduct in-service education for maternal-child health and nursing staff providers.
Review and maintain current research and literature files and serve as a resource to health care providers and breastfeeding families.
Plan, organize, and deliver lactation management services to breastfeeding families.
Evaluate families’ responses to care and initiate independent or collaborative changes when appropriate.