Libby in El Paso wrote in about a mother involved in
talking on the phone, and ignoring her baby's obvious
hunger cues...

I find these situations frustrating and sad.  My
nursling is almost four years old, and my gut reaction
to a distressed baby and a tuned-out mom: I want to
offer MY breast!  Of course I can't but that's my
first instinctive response.  I get a reaction
approaching disgust when a parent ignores their child
in favor of trivial stuff.

IMHO, it is important to convey the gist of this, and
similar scenarios to the medical/nursing staff caring
for this mom, that assistance was offered, mother was
informed baby was hungry and needed to feed, mother
declined offer of help by the LC, and made no attempt
to feed infant when the LC was present.  ***It is also
vitally important to document, honestly and
objectively, in the mother's record, or the baby's (if
BFing notes are documented there), about the attempted
consultation.***  It is perfectly appropriate to
describe the mother's behavior and quote her exact
words, if need be.  Some diplomacy is needed, but an
honest record of what transpired will protect the LC
from later complaints and/or repercussions over the
LC's actions.

IMHO, it may not be the bonding that is at issue.  It
sounds like this mom's desire and motivation to
breastfeed is in question.  She seems to be in need of
some teaching regarding infant psychological
development: regardless of the method of feeding, it
is harmful to ignore an infant's basic needs for food
and comforting.  Shades of "Babywise"--YUCK.

I totally understand your frustration!  Had a similar
scenario yesterday over the phone...a mom phoned in
for BFing help.  When her call was returned, FOB
informed me she was "on her cell phone" and couldn't
talk.  All information and discussion was via the
father, I could hear a baby fussing in the background,
and a woman's voice chatting and laughing.  I am
hoping Mom was on her cell phone to LLL, or another
BFing specialist, but I have my doubts.

Carole
who is obviously feeling a bit cynical today!


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