By Marie Davis, RN, IBCLC
Copyright 1998 Bright Future Lactation Resources
Author's PREFACE
A Lactation's Consultant's Clinical Practice Manual grew from a personal need to define protocols for the treatment of breastfeeding difficulties. I began the manual in 1986 as a set of notes hastily written down to satisfy a pediatrician's request. Unfamiliar with lactation consultants, she observed my lactation practice and suggested that I needed written protocols. I began gathering information in response to lactation consultant students' requests for patient care and business management assistance. Over time, the manual grew. The collection became a guideline for clinical practice.
The manual is not designed to teach lactation consulting but is intended as an adjunct to lactation practice. This manual assumes that formal training in lactation has been completed or is intended.
Part One of the manual includes information on beginning practice, office management, and record keeping procedures. Practice options and public relation skills are discussed. Tables are separated from the chapter text and conveniently placed at the end each chapter. Part Two is a policy manual. It contains policies for business management and the use of devices. Part Three is the protocol manual. Protocols are included for the management of common breastfeeding difficulties. The protocols have been divided in three sections: Breast Problems, Infant Concerns and Maternal Concerns. Each protocol includes questions for taking a client history and rationale. Each policy and protocol is written to stand alone, so the practicing lactation consultant can easily refer to and individual section. In addition, the policies and protocols are broadly written allowing for variations in individual practice. Part Four is appendices that include sample chart forms, consents, caloric intake charts, excessive (10°~6) weight loss and weight conversion tables.
I am registered nurse. Many of the protocols and policies may reflect the practice of a lactation consultant who is also a nurse. I assume that the reader is familiar with medical terminology and common pediatric and family practice diagnoses related to lactation difficulties.
I recognize the diversity and uniqueness of our population. Both the terms "patient" and "client" are used in describing the mother-infant dyad. Individual consultants may prefer client rather than patient. For clarity, the lactation consultant is called "she," while the baby is referred to as "he."
The term medical provider is used to describe all individuals providing medical care (e. g., physician, nurse midwife, nurse practitioner, etc.... )
Marie Davis, RN, IBCLC July l994
Copyright Bright Future Lactation Resources 1998