Job Description

Job Summary

The Lactation Consultant Non-RN provides expert care and support for breastfeeding/chest-feeding parents and their infants. This role is responsible for collaborating with families and the healthcare team to promote optimal feeding outcomes. The Lactation Consultant Non-RN demonstrates knowledge in breastfeeding/chest-feeding and human lactation, providing education and hands-on support in inpatient and outpatient settings.

Essential Functions

Provides specialized lactation care and clinical management for breastfeeding/chest-feeding dyads, as well as pumping parents, using evidence-based practices.Provides breastfeeding support and education to new parents, focusing on challenges like latching, milk production, and infant feeding techniques.Facilitates breastfeeding by teaching proper positioning, latch techniques, breast care, and strategies to manage challenges such as engorgement or low milk supply.Educates parents and families on feeding cues, milk expression techniques, and use of manual or electric breast pumps, promoting confidence and self-efficacy.Collaborates with the healthcare team to coordinate care and ensure appropriate discharge plans, providing resources for continued lactation support.Serves as a resource to healthcare providers, offering education and consultation to enhance knowledge of lactation care and support.Maintains documentation of patient interactions, care plans, and outcomes in compliance with organizational and regulatory standards.Provides direct patient care, including attending deliveries and cesarean sections, when needed, to initiate lactation support.Reports concerns and challenges to appropriate leadership in a timely manner.Performs other duties as assigned.Maintains regular and reliable attendance.Complies with all policies and standards.

Qualifications

0-2 years of direct experience as a lactation consultant required1-2 years of clinical experience in maternal-child health, obstetrics, or pediatrics preferred

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Knowledge of breastfeeding/chest-feeding and human lactation practices.Strong teaching and communication skills to educate parents, families, and healthcare teams.Knowledge of infection prevention protocols and universal precautions.Collaborative skills to work effectively with multidisciplinary teams.Organizational and time management skills to prioritize patient needs in a fast-paced environment.

Licenses and Certifications

IBCLC - International Board Certified Lactation Consultant requiredBCLS - Basic Life Support issued by American Heart Association (AHA), American Red Cross (ARC), or American Safety and Health Institute (ASHI) requiredNRP - Neonatal Resuscitation issued by American Heart Association (AHA), American Red Cross (ARC), or American Safety and Health Institute (ASHI) requiredNALS - Neonatal Advanced Life Support issued by American Heart Association (AHA), American Red Cross (ARC), or American Safety and Health Institute (ASHI) required