Sorry Pat, I have to disagree. I spent today working as an RN and an LC
with only 1 mom and her baby. This happens fairly often as we average about
360 births/year. I will grant you that on days that we are busy, the LC
roll has to be put aside a bit so that I can fulfill my RN roll, but when
things are too busy for me to handle alone, my co-workers see the value of
my position as LC and help me give the mom as much time as possible. In the
long run, it saves them time and frustration. I also have 1 day/week just
for LC work, with the freedom to work additional hours (when not scheduled
as staff nurse) when there is a special need. I have to admit, it is a
great place to work. My co-workers, and especially my nurse manager are
extreemly supportive and appreciative of the work I do with the
breastfeeding couples.
Mary A. Banaszewski RN, Lactation Specialist
From Hastings, Minnesota, where fall has finally come.
mailto: [log in to unmask]

On Oct 2, Pat said:
>
> For the record, big hospital, medium or small, you can't be a good RN and
a
> good LC at the same time, ie: on the same shift.  One or the other of
your
> roles and responsibilities will suffer and in the long run the families
you
> serve won't get the attention and care that they need, whether it is for
> breastfeeding or postpartum care.  Yes, every staff RN "should" be able
to
> help a mom out with basics,    but if mom and baby need more, they
deserve
> your undivided attention.  Yes, I feel strongly about this!  Sincerely,
Pat
> in SNJ
>