Breastfeeding Specialist

**Job Summary**

The Breastfeeding Specialist at ECHN plays a vital role in providing education and support to patients and families regarding breastfeeding. This position requires a strong understanding of lactation and the ability to work collaboratively with maternity and NICU staff to develop policies and protocols.

**Key Responsibilities**

• Assist patients with the establishment of lactation through education and direct patient care in the antepartum, intrapartum, and postpartum periods.
• Assess for breastfeeding difficulties and work with providers to establish an individual plan of action for patients.
• Provide emotional support for patients with breastfeeding difficulties and practice active listening skills to fully assess a patient's needs.
• Work collaboratively with maternity and NICU staff to develop breastfeeding policies and protocols for all breastfeeding dyads.
• Share educational resources with maternity and NICU staff through in-services and one-to-one communication.
• Provide written documentation of care and treatment recommendations.
• Provide follow-up for at-risk patients after leaving the hospital.
• Plan class material to meet participants' level of understanding and ensure that requested topics are covered in class.
• Represent ECHN as a breastfeeding resource to the community through public speaking and events.

**Requirements**

• Certification as an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) required.
• RN license or Bachelor's Degree preferred.