In a message dated 3/8/1 1:39:40 PM, [log in to unmask] writes:

<< Absolutely!! And encourage Moms to take advantage of VNA home visits.
<snip>Remind them to ask (when the VNA nurse calls to schedule the visit) for
a nurse with IBCLC credential or at the minimum, experience with
breastfeeding issues! >>

Lynn,
This is a loaded suggestion, since it is unlikely the doc is going to
remember or even think it important to tell the mom to ask for a VNA nurse
with bf experience (which can also be variably interpreted). When I worked in
the hospital, one of the very biggest problems we faced after discharge
(since all of our mothers saw a VNA nurse), was the very poor advice given by
these nurses and other home-visiting workers, many of whom claimed to be bf
experts and were far from it. There were of course some excellent VNA nurses
(w/ excellent bf skills), but they were in the minority and were themselves
often frustrated in the same way we were. I realize this is a community by
community issue, but I am always cautious about a blanket referral that might
make things worse rather than better. This is the same as the short hospital
stay issue. Nurses who are really skilled in helping moms bf wish moms stayed
in the hospital longer after a hospital birth. But, those of us in
communities with non-Baby-Friendly hospitals hope they go home asap.
Jennifer Tow, IBCLC, CT, USA

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