When and how can an IBCLC/other healthcare provider speak (HCP) up … without losing their job or professional credibility? Is it ever appropriate for an IBCLC to “chase down and correct” negative comments about their clinical practices, rumored to be coming from a former client? What is the best course of action if the primary HCP for the parent or baby flat out disagrees with the IBCLC’s assessment or care plan? If all HCPs should support and promote breast/chestfeeding, how can the IBCLC get them to read, understand and appreciate all the new research on tongue-tie, skin-to-skin, co-sleeping, brain development, and birth practices that impact lactation? This presentation arms the IBCLC/HCP with information about the practice-guiding authority underpinning clinical practice, provides tips on how to handle combative or abusive clients or colleagues, and offers “scripts” for keeping information-sharing diplomatic, and patient-centered.

This session meets requirements for E-CERP approval, for material covering Ethical and Legal Issues, and Public Health and Advocacy, coming under Section VII. Clinical Skills of the IBLCE Detailed Content Outline. After this session the learner will be able to: (1) Identify two mandatory, and one voluntary, practice-guiding document(s) for the International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC); (2) Identify 3 elements in the IBCLC’s mandatory practice-guiding documents defining the responsibility to communicate with and educate members of the healthcare team; (3) Describe how an IBCLC protects client/patient privacy when discussing controversial  issues with healthcare providers.