Michelle wrote:
> I am a CLE and LLL, so I see it a bit from both worlds.  LLL's can (not
all do)
> have a slightly different perspective that I might consider when referring
> mothers to an LC, but I think this depends on the individual LC more than
> the "background to LCdom."  An RN LC can have a similar outlook to an LLL
> LC - personality, training and approach varies.  What I would consider is
> this LC has a leading, "LLL-type" approach whereas that LC has a direct,
> no-nonsense approach.

As a retired RN currently working towards recertification, a LLL Leader, and
an IBCLC, I want to throw in my .02 on this topic.  When I trained, RNs were
the "experts".  We were taught how to get patients to do what we wanted
while appearing to listen to them.  The emphasis was the medical model.
Patients who advocated for themselves were labeled as troublemakers.

When I had my own children and became involved with LLL, I began to see how
disempowering that kind of care is.  I learned to listen and listen and
listen...  I learned about respect for individual choices, that the end
doesn't justify the means, that it is the woman's body and the woman's baby,
and that accurate information offered with trust is sooo effective.

When I studied for the IBCLCE, I was able to draw on my nursing background
(gotta love the jargon...) and the extensive learning that had been involved
in becoming a LLL Leader.  The ongoing education and the skills developed
while working with breastfeeding women for ten years meant I didn't have a
lot of extra preparation to do for the exam.  I wonder if most RNs recognize
how knowledgeable LLL Leaders become on breastfeeding issues  I know that I
didn't.

Now as a returning RN, I read that the nursing climate has changed in 25
years.  There is more talk about respect of cultural issues, and choices in
healthcare, and supporting alternative therapies.  Until I begin work in the
hospital I won't know how this translates in the workplace.  The feedback
that I get from breastfeeding clients in the community makes me think that
effecting change on the hospital front is a slow grind.  For myself, I know
that I am a more compassionate, caring person because of LLL.

/Rheta White IBCLC, LLLLeader and returning RN
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