In a message dated 10/1/2002 9:21:33 AM Eastern Standard Time,
[log in to unmask] writes:


> ). Consent to treat is also a biggie-no more
> > bringing patients back in to the hospital for a quick look/helping
> session.
> >
>
> Denise, I'm not sure what this means IRL -- could you elaborate a bit more?
> Wouldn't any patient coming back into the hospital for anything sign a
> consent form if either they or the baby is going to be touched in any way?

They have to sign a consent but that doesn't always happen. Usually this
process is initiated through admitting who will get signatures for the
generic consent to treat along with demographic info and initiation of a
medical record. That is all we need for lactation services because we aren't
doing invasive procedures.

However, I am aware of breastfeeding professionals telling patients to just
stop by while they are on shift for a quick latch assessment or weight check.
There is no system in place for consent and no medical record. While this is
certainly done with the best of intentions, it is a serious risk for the
facility and the LC.

Because of this, we also don't do weight checks at the support group
meetings. It would be a nice service, but we may not be treating a potential
problem and that puts everyone at risk. I set up an outpatient service with
the blessing of administration to help my patients and increase breastfeeding
duration. This was done at a hospital where there was 20-25 deliveries a
month, so anything is possible.

Denise Altman, RN, IBCLC, LCCE
Columbia, SC




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