Lactation Counselor

Description

JOB DESCRIPTION: The Lactation Counselor develops a breastfeeding program to include parent and staff education, consultation and follow-up. Acts as a resource person for staff, patients, and community members and advocates for breastfeeding as the child-feeding norm Assesses patient and family, emotional, cognitive, social and motivational status relative to learning and determines their educational needs and priorities using a family centered approach. Educational needs may range from pre-conception through time of weaning. Provides professional leadership and advanced knowledge in the practice of lactation management. Addresses the physiological, emotional, developmental, psychosocial and spiritual needs of the patient and family/support system Delivers patient care in complex, multiple problem breastfeeding situations to assist the mother to attain her individual breastfeeding goals. Functions as a member of the multidisciplinary health care team as a Consultants, instructors and mentors/preceptors to other health care professionals and clients in the hospital and community settings. Provides individual consultation via inpatient, outpatient and/or telephone. Assists in the design, instruction and evaluation of internal and external breastfeeding/OB education and promotion. Contributes to efficient departmental operations in order to control cost and ensure productivity by organizing and utilizing time, supplies, and equipment efficiently and effectively. Assists in the development, implementation and evaluation of policies and procedures. Performs other related responsibilities as required. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Certification by the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners (IBCLC). Bachelors degree preferred. Bachelors of Science in Nursing (BSN) preferred if a RN. Current GA Licensure required if a Registered Nurse. Must have some experience with lactation support. PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS (Medium): 20-50 lbs; 0-33% of the work day (occasionally); 11-25 lbs, 34-66% of the workday (frequently); 01-10 lbs, 67-100% of the workday (constantly); Lifting 50 lbs max; Carrying of objects up to 25 lbs; Occasional to frequent standing & walking, Occasional sitting, Close eye work (computers, typing, reading, writing), Physical demands may vary depending on assigned work area and work tasks. ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS: Factors affecting environment conditions may vary depending on the assigned work area and tasks. Environmental exposures include, but are not limited to: Blood-borne pathogen exposure Bio-hazardous waste Chemicals/gases/fumes/vapors Communicable diseases Electrical shock, Floor Surfaces, Hot/Cold Temperatures, Indoor/Outdoor conditions, Latex, Lighting, Patient care/handling injuries, Radiation, Shift work, Travel may be required. Use of personal protective equipment, including respirators, environmental conditions may vary depending on assigned work area and work tasks. EEO/AA Statement: Emory does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability or veteran/Reserve/National Guard status, or on any basis prohibited by applicable law. The above statements are intended to generally describe the work being performed by people assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills, required of the personnel so classified. Based on established hospital/department/unit standards, employees may not perform all duties listed in this job description.