I thought I would stay out of this one, but recent posts brought
something to mind that I feel is pertinent.
When I was in nursing school in 1982, in an introductory class, the
instructor was lamenting the fact that nursing has "let go" of many
of its roles.  She stated that in the past, the roles now covered by
OT's, PT's, nutritionists, and social workers were part of nursing.
In time they "branched off" and are now independent entities.
Certainly the LC field had its start both within and outside the
nursing profession.  Thinking back on this teacher's comments, I
have hope that in time our profession will be seen as a separate
entity just as OT's etc are now.  Perhaps we are too close to the
"birth" of lactation consulting to appreciate that this will come in
time.
Of course, that doesn't help those who are currently trying to
become recognized.  We certainly need to keep emphasizing in every
way we can that we ARE an independent profession, but perhaps this
historical perspective will offer some hope for our future.
Incidentally, in our hospital, even though they have looked for
RN/IBCLC's, we are considered different from staff nurses in what we
are required to show competency.  We (like all staff) need current
CPR, including infant, but we are not required to pass neonatal
resusitation like all OB nurses are.  We do not have to pass the
nursing skills competencies that are done each year.  If we add
another person to our department, the most likely candidate would be
a non-RN LC who is interning with us to prepare for the exam. Even
though the rest of us are also RN's, we will fight for her
acceptance if the occasion arises.
Winnie Mading IBCLC (and a few other things)

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