I am so enjoying this thread on our profession's ethical quandries -- from
the selling of BF products, to the requirements for various consents.  When
I have spoken about ethical issues for LCs, I've used the phrase "passing
the smell test."   Did the IBCLC's actions pass the smell test?  Or did you
wrinkle your nose?

Let us now throw into the mix ILCA Standard of Practice 1, regarding
clinical practice.  (If you lost the copy of the Standards of Practice you
received when you joined ILCA, you can view them on-line at www.ilca.org;
click "Publications").  It tells us:

"Standard 1.  Clinical practice.  The clinical practice of the IBCLC ... is
best accomplished within the framework of systematic problem solving with
other members of the health care team and the client.  IBCLC[s] are
responsible for decisions and actions undertaken as part of their
professional role, including the ... communication and collaboration with
other health care professionals ...

"1.3.5.  Provide a written report to the primary health care provider as
appropriate, including: *assessment information *suggested interventions
*instructions provided"

The Standards of Practice are our "shoulds:" they tell us how we *should* be
conducting ourselves as lactation professionals.  However, there is no
formal sanction process if you fail to comply.

The IBLCE's Code of Ethics Principles are our "musts:" they define ethical
conduct, and provide a sanction process to self-police our profession.

Now read again IBLCE Code of Ethics Principle ("Require and obtain consent
to share clinical concerns and information with the physician or other
primary health care provider before initiating a consultation."
www.iblce.org).

My interpretation:  we *must* get mom's consent to share the results of the
the consult with the appropriate HCP.  We *should* be doing so by giving a
written report to the HCP.


Liz Brooks, JD, IBCLC
Wyndmoor, PA, USA

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