Health professionals, including lactation consultants, have a duty to practice in an evidence based manner. The human brain is a marvel, but it conserves energy by automating tasks and simplifying analysis. This presentation explores the use and misuses of heuristics and evaluation of evidence in the formulation of clinical reasoning in health care professionals assisting breastfeeding families in the context of ethical practice. It includes strategies to improve accurate interpretation of research and avoid cognitive errors in a ‘blame free’ context. In addition, it reviews new information on genetic susceptibility to confirmation bias and basic information about the brain pathways involved.

IBLCE Blueprint: Discipline      J. Ethical and Legal Issues, I. Interpretation of Research