In a message dated 8/21/01 10:46:24 AM Eastern Daylight Time,
[log in to unmask] writes:


. Some of us are actually working to change it.
It is really hard. But why would we think not. It takes perseverance,
patience, Understanding, knowledge and time.

So..childbirth educators job is much bigger than classes - we are working
> at creating a culture that supports a wellness model.
> I am disheartened by professionals who criticize the medical model and
> haven't got the time or courage to really shake some trees. Working in a
> hospital should not be criticized. It is the insider who often has the edge
> on change.  I would like to hear more on this
> Sue - Piloting the Mother Friendly Childbirth Initiative - why don't you?
>

Sue,
Very well said! I have been working in a hospital for years. It does take a
lot of patience & a willingness to take baby-steps at making changes. You
can't just go out & hit people over the head (although, sometimes I want to).
 I have been told by some coworkers that I walk to the beat of a different
drummer, just because I want to see a few things change. I spend time
educating nursing staff (informally) & trying to influence some of the
physicians with my knowlege and abilities as a childbirth educator, lactation
consultant and nurse. One must take lots of criticism from others within the
system while making these little changes. Then we get criticized by those who
are not in the system & don't really know what we do.

Laura Hart
Winter Park, FL

             ***********************************************
The LACTNET mailing list is powered by L-Soft's renowned
LISTSERV(R) list management software together with L-Soft's LSMTP(TM)
mailer for lightning fast mail delivery. For more information, go to:
http://www.lsoft.com/LISTSERV-powered.html