The Lactation Consultant/Counselor is responsible for the coordination, planning and management of the patient, family and staff related to breastfeeding mother and family utilizing the nursing process. Responsible for actively promoting breastfeeding and assisting mothers in reaching their own goals for breastfeeding. Supports programs already in place and assists with the development and implementation of standards of care and guidelines for assisting breastfeeding mothers in all areas of the organization where they might be served (emergency department, OB/GYN, family health centers, employee health, pediatrics or in-patient units). Collaborates with physicians and multidisciplinary team members. The Lactation Consultant/Lactation Counselor supports and implements the philosophy, goals, standards, and values of JFK Health System, the Nursing Department and assigned unit.

1. Has knowledge of pharmaceuticals and the effects on lactation for the patient. Able to identify the complications of use and adverse reactions. Performs assessments of patients utilizing professional knowledge of the breastfeeding process including antepartum, intrapartum and post partum health care and psychosocial issues. Participates in projects and research processes which result in the improvement of the breastfeeding experience and outcomes for the patient. Is able to collect and analyze data with regard to breastfeeding initiation and continuation rates and effects of changes in protocols. Collaborates and communicates in the preparation of policies and guidelines related to the breastfeeding process in all locations of the Medical Center which may have contact with nursing mothers. Assesses patient's breastfeeding condition and uses judgment to determine health care needs and appropriate action to be taken. Assists the community in planning, developing and evaluation local health care needs regarding breastfeeding initiation and continuation.

 

2. Collects health history data from patient, family, significant others and members of the health care team. Fosters an environment that promotes quality patient care. Identifies potential performance improvement issues.

 

3. Collaborates and communicates with all members of the interdisciplinary team to provide a coordinated efficient method of conveying diagnosis, effects of treatment and results to patients and families. Maintains a cooperative relationship among health care teams by communicating information; responding to requests; building rapport; participating in team problem-solving methods. Keeps the Nurse Manager, Director of Nursing, and supervisors informed. Seeks assistance as needed to resolve clinical and management problems.

 

4. Documents all data and findings in a consistent, comprehensive, and legible manner in accordance with hospital policy and regulatory agency requirements.

 

5. Maintains professional and technical knowledge by attending educational workshops, reviewing professional publications, and participating in committee / council activities. Participates in the collection, analysis, and application of performance improvement data. Serves as a clinical resource person and role model, contributing to the professional growth and development of staff. Identifies potential problems and explores method of resolution.

 

6. Utilize assessment skills and collaborates with other disciplines to develop a comprehensive plan of care incorporating diagnosis, interventions, expected outcomes and discharge planning. Utilizes Evidenced-Based Practice and professional nursing standards in the planning and delivery of patient care. Plans and responds to staffing needs in accordance with established standards, as delegated by the Nurse Manager.

 

7. Other duties and/or projects as assigned.

 

8. Adheres to HMH Organizational competencies and standards of behavior.

Education, Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required:

1. Graduate of an accredited School of Professional Nursing. Lactation Consultant should be an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC). The Lactation Counselor should have completed the Prepared Childbirth Education program or the equivalent and maintain certification as a Certified Breastfeeding Counselor.

2. Knowledge of basic computer skills. Demonstrates the ability to successfully complete orientation and all associated competencies.

 

Education, Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Preferred:

1. Acute hospital experience preferred.

 

Licenses and Certifications Required:

1. NJ State Professional Registered Nurse License.

2. AHA Basic Health Care Life Support HCP Certification.

3. International Board Certified Lactation Consultant. 

Minimum rate of $106,329.60 Annually

HMH is committed to pay equity and transparency for our team members. The posted rate of pay in this job posting is a reasonable good faith estimate of the minimum base pay for this role at the time of posting in accordance with the New Jersey Pay Transparency Act and does not reflect the full value of our market-competitive total rewards package.

The starting rate of pay is provided for informational purposes only and is not a guarantee of a specific offer. Posted hourly rates may be stated as an annual salary in the offer and posted annual salaries may be stated as an hourly rate in the offer, depending on the level and nature of the job duties and credentials of the candidate. The base compensation determined at the time of the offer may be different than the posted rate of pay based on a number of non-discriminatory factors, including but not limited to:

Labor Market Data: Compensation is benchmarked against market data to ensure competitiveness.
Experience: Years of relevant work experience.
Education and Certifications: Level of education attained, including specialized certifications, credentials, completed apprenticeship programs or advanced training.
Skills: Demonstrated proficiency in relevant skills and competencies.
Geographic Location: Cost of living and market rates for the specific location.
Internal Equity: Compensation is determined in a manner consistent with compensation ranges for similar roles within the organization.
Budget and Grant Funding: Departmental budgets and any grant funding associated with the job position may impact the pay that can be offered.


Some jobs may also be eligible for performance-based incentives, bonuses, or commissions not reflected in the starting rate. Certain positions may also be eligible for shift differentials for work performed on evening, night, or weekend shifts.

In addition to our compensation for full-time and part-time (20+ hours/week) job positions, HMH offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, vision, paid leave, tuition reimbursement, and retirement benefits.