I am a pediatric registered dietitian and an IBCLC.  I have been
certified for many years.  I see absolutely no reason that anyone,
especially with a medical professional background, should not be able to
become certified (and hired) as an IBCLC.  Each discipline has its own
expertise they bring to the table when specializing in lactation.  No, I
didn't have the skills of an R.N. when I began in lactation, and I am
not an R.N. now...BUT what I do have are the nursing skills necessary to
be a professional lactation consultant.  R.N.s do not have the nutrition
knowledge that the R.D. has, HOWEVER, I don't believe that makes an R.N.
an inferior IBCLC.  An IBCLC, no matter what the background is, should
be prepared to understand what is needed to provide care to the
breastfeeding mom & baby.  Institutions that hire only RNs as lactation
consultants most likely plan to use them for something else (i.e.
staffing and other nursing duties).  An IBCLC who practices full-time in
that role should have all the skills necessary to fully support the
breastfeeding dyad.  I feel strongly that the requirements to qualify
for the IBLCE exam should qualify any candidate to function as a
professional in the lactation field.  It doesn't mean every candidate
has EXPERIENCE in every area; however, it should mean that they have the
knowledge to provide the necessary care as an LC.

Ginger Carney, RD, LDN, IBCLC
Memphis, TN

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