There have been several posts on this topic this week.  Using the correct
language in important.  I don't use the negative form, "non-RN", but phrase
it positively as "a background other than nursing or midwifery" or "a
diverse background".  Some of us with diverse backgrounds are the ones whom
RN IBCLCs and other health professionals telephone or email for advice in
helping a client with an unusual or intractable situation.
As has been mentioned, a significant proportion of those of us who were
early IBCLCs had backgrounds in LLL or ABA (then NMAA), or other
breastfeeding support organisations.  In the early days of the profession,
some with nursing or midwifery backgrounds nominated their LLLI or ABA role
as their primary credential, because they saw this as the relevant one.
In time, more exam candidates began to come from midwifery or nursing
backgrounds, till RN IBCLCs came to predominate.  It is good to see more of
the people who are working with mothers and newborns doing the study and
preparation to be able to prevent unnecessary problems.  Besides this
positive aspect, there is also the negative aspect (which several
Lactnetters have mentioned), that the IBCLC credential is seen by some as an
add-on credential for nurses and just another nursing field.  Occasionally
one encounters an RM IBCLC who treats those of us with diverse backgrounds
as not being real professionals - but I'm pleased to say this very rarely
happens to me.  (I think it says more about the individual's sense of
security and self, if this is implied, than about the recipient.)
Ideally, the IBCLC needs to be well rounded in her preparation, with a
balance between the scientific and biomedical knowledge and the humanistic
aspects of the LC's work (counselling skills, cultural sensitivity).  Add to
that, the ability to look beyond the presenting issue, which may not be the
whole story, and be holistic in approach.
Interestingly, so much of what I originally learnt from LLL is now
evidence-based. It is incumbent upon IBCLCs of whatever background to be
constantly learning and keeping up to date.  Because the human subject is
not a pea in a pod, we must also remember that we learn from our clients,
especially clients with unusual or challenging situations.  I love this
field, and I love the continual learning.
Virginia
Dr Virginia Thorley, OAM, PhD, GD Couns, IBLCLC, FILCA
Private Practice IBCLC
Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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