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The International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) is recognized as an expert in lactation knowledge and experience in breastfeeding situations.  The Lactation Consultant is available and collaborates with nursing units to provide a comprehensive lactation program which includes lactation services, education services, and continued program assessment. Lactation Consultants proactively talk with families before or assist soon after delivery with any perceived concerns. The IBCLC actively participates in Discharge Rounds. This Lactation consultant position functions collaboratively covering for lactation team members as needed at both hospitals and within the OB Clinic setting.

The lactation consultant is a clinical nurse expert working collaboratively to improve the quality of patient care and facilitate optimal outcomes in the establishment and maintenance of breastfeeding and lactation. As an expert the lactation consultant is an integral member of the healthcare team trained to counsel mothers and families on initiation, exclusivity, and duration of breastfeeding and to assist amidst any difficulties or high-risk situations. The lactation consultant focuses on health promotion and encourages self-care and parental decision-making prenatally and postnatally. The lactation consultant functions as a clinical nurse expert resource and educator, playing a vital role in educating patients, families, and multidisciplinary team members on evidenced based practices in breastfeeding and lactation to provide anticipatory guidance as well as to empower mothers and families to manage breastfeeding challenges as they arise. Facilitates breastfeeding mothers and families in reaching their breastfeeding and lactation goals to ultimately improving the care of mothers and infants.  Adheres to the International Lactation Consultant Association (ILCA) Standards of Practice, the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners (IBCLC) Code of Professional Conduct, the IBLCE Scope of Practice and Clinical Competencies.

This role is eligible for TN sponsorship.

Graduate of a baccalaureate nursing program, as recognized by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), National League for Nursing Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation (NLN CNEA). If graduated from a nursing program that was not accredited by ACEN, CCNE, or NLN CNEA, at least one year of RN experience in an applicable care setting or one year is required.

Additional Experience and/or Qualifications:

Effective teaching skills. Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Effective problem-solving techniques. Ability to use computer and other technology for data entry. Skillful in time management and coordination.  Strong analytical skills. Experience in leading and managing teams and/or projects. Strong customer focus. Ability to be flexible to meet the needs of patients/families and the responsibilities of the lactation consultant service.

A minimum of two years of perinatal nursing experience is required.

Licensure/Certification Required:

Current RN license by applicable state requirements. International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) Certified or eligible to complete examination for certification within the first year of employment.  Maintains current Basic Life Support for Health Care Providers from one of the following programs: American Heart Association or American Red Cross. Maintains Neonatal Resuscitation Program competency. Additional specialty certification/training as required by the work area.