This subject is very timely for me.  Within the next week I plan to
approach our department head with the written hospital policy on
vendors.  Much of what the formula reps do on the unit is in direct
conflict including
1. Not having a "Visitor" nametag, only their company one.
2. Direct advertising to staff without first going through a bunch
of administrative hoops.
3. Samples meant to go directly to patients.
and the biggest one-
4. Gifts to staff.  This is definitely forbidden in the policy and
no exceptions are given.  Of course, if they take me seriously and
apply the policy to the reps, some staff will be very upset with me
that they will no longer get a free pir at Thanksgiving, free pizzas
for lunch from time to time or cases and cases of free formula
whenever they have a baby.
I know of at least one other LC in the area who was able to get rid
of the freebies (including the infamous diaper bags) by challenging
her hospital administration on this double standard.
Esther, you might want to check your hospital's Policy and Procedure
on outside vendors and see if you can make a similar challenge.
Wish me luck!
Winnie Mading RNC, IBCLC

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