Kim Hansen-I know exactly what you are going through!!!!  I get revitalized
when I get together with other like-minded lactation professionals. (such as
the seminar I attended here in Orlando in Jan.) I have had many moments when I
think I am in a losing battle. But then I remember some mom & baby who were
able to continue BF because of my support.

 We have educated the staff & physicians and updated breastfeeding policies at
our hospital over the last 8 years, give or take a year or two. I get really
discouraged when I work with a BF couple only to have another nurse on the
unit sabbotage what has been done. We have some nurses who have NEVER attended
a class about BF and encourage moms to sleep at night. I know they mean well,
but . . .

We have recently hired new staff-some will be wonderful support and help
educate some of the "older" staff members who hang on to old beliefs/habits
about BF. I have found that having informed & supportive administrative staff
on the unit is helpful. Our nursery/NICU supervisor recently asked me to give
a mandatory class for her staff. This class will be offered several times, be
open to all staff members and also provide CEU's for the nurses and
certificates of attendance for non-licensed staff.

I used to have an educator position that included some time as a lactation
consultant,  but with a big business merger several years ago that position
was eliminated. I continue to work as a staff nurse and teach childbirth and
breastfeeding classes to expectant couples. I continue to be a resource person
for the staff.

Keep going!  LITTLE-BY-LITTLE you will make BIG CHANGES.

Good luck,
Laura Hart, RN, BSN, IBCLC