RN Lactation Consultant

Marion Health nurses are committed to making an impact in the lives of their patients, and their colleagues. The Marion Health nurse is professionally engaged, possesses clinical expertise, has a spirit of inquiry, embraces learning and fosters the patient relationship. This position is accountable and responsible for the provision and coordination of competent, evidence-based care, which includes assessment, diagnosis, outcome identification, planning, implementation and evaluation. Participates in decision making, teaching, mentoring, and collaboration with a multidisciplinary team to advance the patient plan of care. Coordinates the breast feeding program. Provides staff, physicians and community education regarding breast feeding issues. Develops the plan of care with patient and ensures continuity of care through pre-natal classes, inpatient care and discharge follow up.  Performs other duties as assigned.

• Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing.
• Current Indiana Registered Nurse license.
• BLS certification or must obtain during Orientation and prior to reporting to department.
• Other advance life support certification required by unit/department specialty according to patient care policies must be obtained within one year of hire.
• Current certification as a Lactation Consultant who will obtain their International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) within 18 months.
• One year experience in Obstetric nursing.

• Mathematical calculations and medication preparation and administration.
• Requires excellent communication skills to effectively and tactfully communicate with patients and their families and guests, co-workers, managers, providers and other hospital personnel on a one-to-one basis using appropriate grammar, vocabulary and word usage. 
• Interpersonal skills necessary in order to carry out duties in a professional manner, as well as the ability to work well under stress.
• Developed computer skills and the ability to learn and proficiently perform patient care applications, echarting, email and other standards applications related to the department operations and job function.
• Knowledge of health care policies, government regulations, and reimbursement practices pertinent to the department.
• Educate staff and providers to encourage the implementation of breastfeeding practices that provide the optimal level of care for infant feeding.
• Provide education to our community regarding breastfeeding practices to provide the optimal level of care for infant feeding. 
• Understanding of clinical concepts related to planning, organizing and supervising nursing care provided in the FBC.
• Competent knowledge and skills to provide nursing care based upon age-specific and developmental needs (neonate through geriatrics).
• Strong customer service skills, with special emphasis on patient centered care. 
• Ability to promote compassion and a therapeutic environment.
• Ability to provide clinical reasoning; decision-making and critical thinking.
• Ability to use independent judgment and discretion.
• Ability to analytically evaluate problem situations in-depth and come to independent, appropriate conclusions.
• Ability to be discreet and protect the integrity of any confidential matter or information encountered during the performance of job duties.
• Ability to manage multiple issues simultaneously and appropriately prioritize based on patient needs.
• Basic working understanding of concepts of infection control principles to prevent the spread of infection to patients, self and others.
• Ability to react appropriately in any environment or situation.
• General awareness and understanding of legal implication of patient care activities and self-performance while performing job duties.

• Typical hospital clinical environment with frequent standing and walking. 
• Work may be subject to interruptions and occasional high stress levels.
• Risk for occupational exposure to blood, body fluid and other potentially infectious, electrical and radiation hazards. 
• Works with protected health information. 
• Works in close proximity to patients and visitors.
• Works in outreach sites.
• Ability to work any shift,  occasional extended hours, holidays and/or weekends based on the needs of the department.

• Maintain a positive working relationship with WIC program staff.
• Ability to innovate and think outside of the box.
• Standing, walking, stooping, bending, lifting, pushing and pulling to provide patient care and to utilize patient care devices necessary to perform duties in a safe manner 
• Use of computers and other standard office equipment.
• Pushing workstation on wheels to patient rooms. 
• Lifting supplies and equipment typically found in clinical patient care areas. 
• Operates equipment typically found in patient rooms. 
• Must assist patients with mobility both in and out of bed.