LACTATION COUNS in Picayune, Mississippi at Forrest General Hospital

Job Summary:

The lactation counselor performs under the direct supervision of the Patient Care Coordinator and is delegated an assignment by the charge nurse to achieve quality patient care. The lactation counselor shall conduct assessments of mothers and infants for breastfeeding complications and/or knowledge deficits and provide counseling to these mothers, be an educational resource for staff and collaboration with the Patient Care Coordinator as evidenced by documentation in Patient Care Record, direct observation by Director of Obstetrics Services and patient evaluations of care. The lactation counselor is responsible to the Patient Care Coordinator for patient care and ultimately accountable to the Director of Obstetrics Services and the Director of Nursing. The lactation counselor will participate in teaching prenatal and other related classes. Perform other job duties as assigned.

Performance Expectations:

• Assess breastfeeding using a multi-faceted approach
• Use counseling skills and techniques that are supportive to breastfeeding mothers and babies
• Construct and maintain conditions that predispose mothers and babies to an uncomplicated breastfeeding experience through counseling, education, and support
• Assess for, monitor, and evaluate physical conditions that predispose mothers and babies to a complex breastfeeding experience
• Monitor and evaluate behavioral , cultural and social conditions that predispose mothers and babies to complex breastfeeding conditions
• Identify and advocate for aspects of breastfeeding management programs that facilitate optimal health outcomes
• Works to increase breastfeeding rated, advocates for societal change in attitudes and behavior regarding breastfeeding
• Identify medical problems or other common barriers to successful breastfeeding
• Establish rapport with and motivate individuals form diverse cultural and social-economic backgrounds
• Ability to effectively communicate with department managers and coordinators, patients, physicians, and other members of the organizations administrative and management team in a manner that is consistent with a customer service focus and application of positive language principles.
• Demonstrates sound judgment in interactions with employees, physicians, and the interprofessional care team.
• Promotes a positive work environment with staff and hospital administrative team.
• Collaborates with staff by actively communicating and comprehensively reporting pertinent information.
• Exhibits open and professional communication abilities.
• Participates in the development of quality measurements and performance improvement plans
• Utilizes critical thinking skills, decisive judgment, and the ability to work with in a fast paced environment
• Ensures compliance with State and Federal Laws, accreditation, professional and regulatory standards including quality assurance and licensure requirements, policies, procedures, and moral and ethical codes.
• Maintains and applies current knowledge regarding applicable regulatory standards related to safe patient care.
• Collaborates with hospital administration in policy formation, program, and capital planning.
• This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive; the employee will also perform other reasonably related job duties as assigned.

Baby-Friendly Program Responsibilities:

• Maintain accurate tracking, reporting, and submission of Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI) statistics, audits, chart reviews, and service evaluations to ensure Highland Community Hospital remains in good standing for designation and re-designation.
• Collaborate with the Charge Nurse/PCC, Director of Obstetrics and Director of Nursing to monitor progress, address gaps, and uphold Baby-Friendly standards
• Coordinate care with the Highland Center for Women’s Health Clinic to ensure consistent patient education related to Baby-Friendly standards and practices
• Serve as a resource and advocate for Baby-Friendly practices, supporting consistent staff and patient education and adherence

Qualifications:

Education/Skills:

Associate Degree in Science/Health completed or actively pursing

Work Experience:

Five years working in a Lactation Counselor role

Certification/Licensure-DUE UPON HIRE

Additional Certification/Licensure - Obtained based on required timeframe below

• Basic Life Support

Within 30 Days of Employment

Required

• Certified Lactation Counselor (CLC) or Certified Breastfeeding Specialist (CBS)

Within 1 Year of Employment

Required

• International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC)

Within 3 Years of Employment

Required

Mental Demands:

Ability to perform as a team member, cooperate with others, follow directions precisely,

demonstrate initiative, set priorities, and function under stress.