I have a different "take" on this re-testing thing.

 

Maybe this is a way to get people out of the profession who should not be
there?  

 

I know those who participate in Lactnet also attend conferences, read,
discuss alternatives, look up information and write privately to the
generous experts among us.so they would/could/should pass it with flying
colors!

 

However, I was - and still am - an LLLLeader.  No one has checked whether I
know the information or even if I've read the Womanly Art of Breastfeeding
since I was approved in 1975.  Of course, you know I have.but I have been to
meetings where Leaders have not been keeping up to date, even though LLLI
instructs/informs/requests that they do.

 

I first tested in 1985 - in 1996, when re-testing was to occur, I was part
of the "test subjects" who did not study for the exam - and I passed.
However, I had also been an ILCA member since the beginning, reading the JHL
through all its stages, attended local and national conferences, and was by
then teaching breastfeeding to staff in the hospital and local clinics, as
well as seeing mothers in the hospital.

 

I continue to teach, visit mothers, run support groups, etc.  I retested
again in 2006 without studying - because I'm using the test as a "gauge."
As  long as I pass it without studying, and continue to attend conferences,
read the JHL and Lactnet, keep on visiting moms and teaching - I think I can
use the IBCLC.  When I can no longer pass it - I plan to retire!

 

I love my profession - and hope this will be beyond my "retirement age" -
I'll be 65 this year - but as they say - 60's are the old 50's!  <grin>  

 

I also want to be sure to provide appropriate care to moms .and testing is
one way to let me know when to quit!  Of course I hope colleagues will be
kind enough to let me know.

 

Jeanette Panchula, BA-SW, RN, PHN, IBCLC

Vacaville, CA

 

 


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