If we are seeing that "there are more and more IBCLC's doing just that -
making blanket statements and using just one way to show a new mom how to
breastfeed her baby" due to "lack of clinical experience"...

...then if we aren't part of the solution, we are part of the problem!

Yes, I learned what I know now due to LOTS of clinical experience (35+ years
of it!) ...Along with a whole lot of mistakes!

HOWEVER, I don't want the NEXT generation of IBCLCs to need 30 years to get
to where I am...I want them to learn from what I have experienced and go
FURTHER!

WE must be available and willing to offer opportunities for dialogue and
experience.  NOT just "lecture" which requires people to come to us, pay a
fee and sit and listen (and learn without applying).

Nurses have been known to "eat their young" by dumping the "dirty work" and
worst shifts, etc. to the youngest nurses - who either swim or leave the
profession - after performing badly!  It is important that we DO NOT follow
that model!

What CAN we each do to help nourish our young?

Jeanette Panchula, BSW, RN, PHN, IBCLC
California, USA

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