How to integrate a lactation consultant in an outpatient clinic environment

J Hum Lact. 2006 Feb;22(1):99-103. doi: 10.1177/0890334405283622.

Abstract

Successful efforts in improving breastfeeding initiation rates at an urban teaching hospital prompted the hospital to create a lactation consultant (LC) position in the outpatient setting to focus on breastfeeding duration. This article reviews the complexity of the clinic setting, with the challenges and benefits of the consultant's first year in one of the hospital's outpatient clinics. Preliminary data collected by the consultant suggest that patients counseled by the LC in the outpatient clinic setting have longer breastfeeding duration rates.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Ambulatory Care Facilities
  • Breast Feeding* / epidemiology
  • Breast Feeding* / psychology
  • Counseling*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Maternal Health Services / standards*
  • Referral and Consultation
  • Time Factors