There's something else I observed in this episode (I'm going to watch my
tape to double-check my first impressions).  There is an overall theme to
this show:  trusting your instincts vs following rigid rules.
    We see this between the two male physicians: one the scientist and one
the healer.
    We see this in the doctor who is both neurosurgeon and psychiatrist.
His instincts say to use all the skills he has but the 'rules' say to never
mix disciplines.
    We see this in the female chief of surgery who is trying to follow her
instincts by taking her career in a fantastic new direction (the space
program), but at the same time, follow the rules of her job as surgeon.
    We also see this in the conference room discussion about the 'contract'
(rules) mom had to sign to stick to BF only and not feed ABM. The argument
was made that the contract didn't relieve her of using her common sense
(instinct) and seek help when something is wrong.  I think the part about
her calling the LC for help, the LC recognizing that there was something
wrong and recommending the mom take the baby to the doctor, but mom didn't
follow thru, is straight out of the Wall Street Journal of a couple of years
ago.
    My observation of that conference room conversation about Baby Friendly
was of one strong opponent, one strong proponent, and various viewpoints in
between.  All the arguments were similar to ones I have heard from various
hospital people in my area as they debate whether or not to apply.
I have no clue where the writers got the idea of a "Baby Friendly contract"
though.  That's not just mis-information, it's flat out WRONG and really
needs to be addressed ASAP.  That was the obvious influence of ABM
companies.
    I saw stressed-out moms trying to do everything right (rules) versus
tuning in to and watching the baby (instinct).  I didn't like the happy,
stay at home ABM feeder who had her life completely under control, with no
apparent worries or problems - another ABM company influence?
    At least they didn't get into the topic of scheduling and timing feeds!!
Small favors??
    Did anyone else see these contrasts - or did I stay too long in my
Literature classes?
Phyllis

Phyllis Adamson, BA, IBCLC
Private Practice - Glendale, AZ
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