My personal code seems to mirror several already mentioned:

 

Leave the mom stronger than she was - feeling more confident

Encourage self-trust for mom and her partner

Give the best (evidence based and appropriate) information and education I
can without withholding 'just in case I might contradict' a Dr. or other HCP

I give referrals for all products I feel a mom would benefit from -
especially if I sell them - letting the mom know I am not in it for the
money.  

I refer out if a situation is beyond my experience

I don't charge by the hour.I charge a flat fee - again so the parents know I
am not in it to make bucks if the consult runs long.

I welcome other new LC's or those in training to talk with me or come on a
visit with me so they can learn more - and tho I probably should charge for
it - I don't.  

I am NOT territorial with other LC's in my area.there are some LC's who
are.I just think that is sad.  

 

For myself - I (finally) learned to take time for me and my family.  If a
mom cannot wait until Monday morning to be seen (and it is Friday and I have
my kids <I share custody with their father>) then I refer her out so I can
keep my priorities in line - and I explain that to the parents too.a little
example of putting the kids first.  I also know when I need a break.  I have
found, due to injuries from car accidents, that I cannot see 2 moms a day
more than a couple days in a row - it is simply too hard on my body.  So I
am learning how to space out the consults better so I can work better for my
clients and be better with my family.  

 

I think personal ethics are critical in what we do - I have many more but,
after 2 consults yesterday (both 3-4 hours long) and one today (3.5 hrs) and
all 3 challenging situations - I am wiped!  (I do home visits and no one
lived close to the other!) So guess who is going out for dinner tonight with
her partner to relax and enjoy (and let someone else do the dishes!) and is
also taking this weekend off??  :-)  Of course it also helps that my
youngest turns 10 on Saturday and it is very important for him to know HE is
my priority this weekend.along with the lazer-tag, birthday party and
sleep-over!

 

I also like this question because, if you let it, it really gets you
thinking about who you are, and what you believe in.  Maybe reading others'
ideas and thoughts will trigger others to think about what they do and why -
maybe improve on areas they need improvement on and maybe realize they are
just fine where they are at!  

 

Take care All.

 

Warmly,

 

Jaye Simpson, IBCLC, CIIM

 

 


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