Lactation Consultant RN II - FBS - ($10,000 Sign On + Relocation)

Lactation Consultant Rn

Under general supervision, the Lactation Consultant RN provides safe, family-centered, culturally appropriate patient care by assessing, planning, implementing, and evaluating lactation plans for the breastfeeding/chest-feeding dyad and the pumping parent. Works collaboratively with the patient and members of the health care team to develop feeding plans for a range of infants, from the normal newborn to the complex neonate, demonstrating specialized knowledge and clinical expertise in breastfeeding/chest-feeding and human lactation. As an integral member of the interdisciplinary team, the Lactation Consultant RN functions within the Scope of Practice as defined by the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners (IBLCE) and adheres to the policies, procedures, and guidelines of care of the Alaska Native Medical Center.

Provides lactation support and services to the breastfeeding/chest-feeding dyad, including management, care planning, education, and instruction. Communicates effectively with patients, families, physicians, and coworkers, and consistently advocates for the nursing dyad. Performs inpatient consultations, telephone triage, and prenatal education as appropriate. Uses current evidence to develop feeding plans that address individual feeding issues while respecting the family's feeding goals. Assesses the adequacy of breastfeeding and provides interventions as necessary. Assists parents of infants who cannot breastfeed to establish and maintain a milk supply and to store their milk appropriately. Evaluates and documents the patient's response to care and initiates independent and/or collaborative changes where appropriate. Collaborates with the interdisciplinary team and the outpatient Lactation Consultant to provide continuity of care upon discharge. Teaches, coaches, supports, and mentors nursing staff and other healthcare learners to promote evidence-based clinical practice and support breastfeeding skills. Performs other duties as assigned.

Knowledge of breastfeeding/chest-feeding and human lactation, and of the IBLCE Scope of Practice. Knowledge of nursing science, principles, techniques, and procedures for the care of patients. Knowledge of healthcare terminology, anatomy, physiology, and concepts of disease. Knowledge and ability to utilize evidence-based practice to develop the plan of care and interventions. Knowledge of the hospital environment and how the services and functions interact. Knowledge of a shared governance environment with shared decision-making. Skill in critical thinking to provide effective and compassionate nursing care, assessing patient situations and taking effective courses of action. Skill in providing cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Skill in assessing and prioritizing multiple requests by patients, families, and team members. Knowledge of Alaska Tribal Health System, ANTHC, and Alaska Native culture(s). Skill in operating a personal computer utilizing a variety of applications. Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with others. Ability to manage multiple priorities and tasks concurrently and meet deadlines. Ability to communicate effectively.

Minimum Education Qualification: An Associate's Degree in Nursing. Equivalent knowledge, experience, education, or training may be substituted for education. Must have participated in 30 hours every 2 years of continuing education in nursing in general, 16 of which are in the specific area of practice.

Minimum Experience Qualification: Specific experience may be required for each work area.

Minimum Certification Qualification: Current Registered Nurse license in the State of Alaska. Current Basic Life Support (BLS) card required. Current International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) required. Current Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) certification required.

Preferred Education Qualification: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) preferred.

Preferred Experience Qualification: Two (2) or more years of nursing experience preferred. NICU Experience Preferred.

Preferred Certification Qualification: National certification is preferred.

Additional Requirements: Depending on the needs of the organization, some incumbents in this job class may be required to obtain additional certifications or training in one or more specialty areas.