Lactation Consultant Nurse Practitioner Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the dynamic world of healthcare, the role of lactation consultant nurse practitioners is growing ever more crucial.

As the understanding of breastfeeding’s numerous benefits advances, the need for proficient healthcare professionals who can guide, support, and troubleshoot lactation issues becomes increasingly apparent.

But let’s delve deeper: What does a lactation consultant nurse practitioner truly entail?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the scope of this position,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the behind-the-scenes of lactation consultancy,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a tailor-made lactation consultant nurse practitioner job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Without further ado, let’s dive right in.

Lactation Consultant Nurse Practitioner Duties and Responsibilities

Lactation Consultant Nurse Practitioners are healthcare professionals who specialize in the clinical management of breastfeeding.

They are the primary care providers who guide and support new mothers through the process of breastfeeding, from prenatal preparation to postpartum management.

Their key duties and responsibilities include:

• Educating expectant mothers about the benefits and mechanics of breastfeeding
• Assisting new mothers in understanding and using breastfeeding techniques
• Identifying and solving any breastfeeding problems such as latching difficulties, milk supply issues, and painful breastfeeding
• Developing and implementing individualized care plans to address breastfeeding challenges
• Providing ongoing support and encouragement to breastfeeding mothers
• Conducting regular consultations to monitor the baby’s growth and the mother’s breastfeeding practices
• Collaborating with healthcare providers like pediatricians and obstetricians to ensure comprehensive care
• Keeping detailed records of patients’ progress and update care plans as necessary
• Advising on the use of breastfeeding equipment like breast pumps and nipple shields
• Keeping up to date with the latest research and practices in lactation management

 

Lactation Consultant Nurse Practitioner Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a compassionate and dedicated Lactation Consultant Nurse Practitioner to join our team.

The ideal candidate will provide comprehensive lactation consultations, focusing on mothers and their infants, teaching breastfeeding techniques, and addressing potential breastfeeding challenges.

The Lactation Consultant Nurse Practitioner will be responsible for conducting consultations, facilitating breastfeeding classes, and providing ongoing support to new mothers.

The individual should be comfortable working closely with other healthcare professionals and advocating for breastfeeding as a health priority.

 

Responsibilities

• Provide lactation care and instruction to breastfeeding mothers and infants.
• Educate families on the benefits and techniques of breastfeeding.
• Conduct prenatal consultations and classes to prepare expectant mothers for breastfeeding.
• Assess and monitor infant weight and development to ensure proper nutrition.
• Address and resolve any breastfeeding issues such as latching difficulties, painful feeding, and low milk production.
• Collaborate with other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care to mothers and infants.
• Stay updated on the latest breastfeeding research and techniques.
• Maintain detailed medical records of patients.
• Provide emotional support to mothers facing difficulties with breastfeeding.

 

Qualifications

• Active Nurse Practitioner license
• Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) required
• Proven experience as a Lactation Consultant or similar role
• Strong understanding of the physiology of breastfeeding and the ability to teach techniques to mothers
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to handle sensitive situations with discretion and empathy
• Knowledge of relevant medical software
• BSN degree and advanced nursing education

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Lactation Consultant Nurse Practitioner
• Work Environment: Hospital, birthing centers, or private practices. Some travel may be required for home visits or patient consultations.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Nurse Manager or Clinical Director.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $79,000 minimum to $115,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Lactation Consultant Nurse Practitioner Do?

Lactation Consultant Nurse Practitioners are healthcare professionals who specialize in the field of breastfeeding and infant nutrition.

They can work in various healthcare settings like hospitals, maternity clinics, or as independent consultants.

They provide expert breastfeeding guidance and support to mothers, from helping to initiate breastfeeding after birth to addressing any breastfeeding problems that may arise.

This may include issues like low milk supply, painful breastfeeding, latch problems, or a baby’s weight gain issues.

They conduct consultations, which involve performing assessments on both the mother and the baby.

They observe feedings, assess the baby’s latch, and may use equipment to measure a baby’s intake during breastfeeding.

Lactation Consultants also provide education and counselling to mothers, helping them understand the benefits of breastfeeding, proper breastfeeding techniques, and how to maintain their milk supply.

They may also provide information on pumping and storing breast milk, returning to work while breastfeeding, and weaning.

They work in collaboration with other healthcare providers, including doctors and midwives, to create comprehensive care plans that support a mother’s breastfeeding goals.

Lactation Consultant Nurse Practitioners are advocates for breastfeeding, often conducting research and contributing to public health policies related to breastfeeding and infant nutrition.

 

Lactation Consultant Nurse Practitioner Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Lactation Consultant Nurse Practitioner should possess the skills and qualifications that are relevant to the job role, which include:

• Extensive knowledge and understanding of human lactation, breastfeeding techniques, and strategies to handle potential breastfeeding issues.
• Empathy and excellent interpersonal skills to communicate effectively with new mothers, understanding their concerns and providing emotional support.
• Strong observational skills to assess the mother and baby’s health, and identify any issues related to breastfeeding.
• Excellent problem-solving skills to address breastfeeding challenges and suggest appropriate solutions.
• Physical stamina and patience to work with new mothers and infants, which may involve long hours and frequent interruptions.
• Ability to educate and counsel mothers and families about the benefits and techniques of breastfeeding.
• Strong communication skills to coordinate with other healthcare providers, ensuring a comprehensive approach to patient health and well-being.
• Attention to detail for maintaining accurate medical records, documenting patient progress, and noting any potential issues.

 

Lactation Consultant Nurse Practitioner Experience Requirements

Lactation Consultant Nurse Practitioners usually begin their journey through a nursing degree program where they gain foundational knowledge and clinical experience in health care.

Upon graduation and licensure as a Registered Nurse (RN), these professionals may gain additional experience in maternal-child health, neonatal intensive care, midwifery, or a related field, dealing directly with breastfeeding and newborn care.

To become a certified lactation consultant, they need to complete a specific education program and accrue a significant number of supervised clinical hours working with breastfeeding and lactating women, usually over a period of 1 to 2 years.

Those with more than 3 to 5 years of experience often develop their counseling and problem-solving skills, dealing with complex breastfeeding issues.

These professionals may also gain experience in education roles, teaching new mothers, healthcare professionals, and the community about the benefits of breastfeeding and lactation support.

Lactation Consultant Nurse Practitioners with more than 5 years of experience may have some managerial or leadership experience in their background, running lactation programs, or supervising other lactation consultants.

They might also be involved in research, policy-making, or advocacy in the field of lactation support.

Additionally, continuous professional development through seminars, workshops, or further education is often required to stay updated with the latest in lactation science and practice.

 

Lactation Consultant Nurse Practitioner Education and Training Requirements

Becoming a Lactation Consultant Nurse Practitioner often begins with a Bachelor’s degree in nursing.

In addition, registered nursing licensure is a requirement in all states.

Following this, a Master’s degree in nursing is needed.

During this degree, students should focus on courses related to women’s health, infant and child care, and nutrition.

Nurses then must gain clinical experience, often working in maternity wards, neonatal units, or other settings that offer close interaction with breastfeeding mothers and infants.

The International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners (IBLCE) provides certification for lactation consultants.

To sit for this certification exam, nurses must meet educational and clinical experience prerequisites.

Once certified, the lactation consultant nurse practitioner is required to participate in continuing education and re-certify every five years.

Some nurses also pursue additional training in breastfeeding counseling, nutrition, and infant development to further enhance their skills and knowledge.

 

Lactation Consultant Nurse Practitioner Salary Expectations

A Lactation Consultant Nurse Practitioner earns an average salary of $105,032 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings may vary based on experience, geographic location, the complexity of the role, and the healthcare facility where they are employed.

 

Lactation Consultant Nurse Practitioner Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Lactation Consultant Nurse Practitioner need?

A Lactation Consultant Nurse Practitioner must have strong communication and interpersonal skills to understand the needs and concerns of their patients.

They need to have in-depth knowledge about breastfeeding, nutrition, and maternal health.

Other necessary skills include problem-solving abilities to identify and address breastfeeding issues and complications, empathy to provide support and counseling to mothers, and patience to educate new mothers about the breastfeeding process.

 

Do Lactation Consultant Nurse Practitioners need a specific degree or certification?

Yes, a Lactation Consultant Nurse Practitioner needs to be a registered nurse first, which requires a degree in nursing.

After gaining clinical experience in maternal-child health, they can then pursue a certification as an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC).

This certification involves completing specific educational and clinical hour requirements.

 

What should you look for in a Lactation Consultant Nurse Practitioner resume?

When reviewing a resume for a Lactation Consultant Nurse Practitioner, check for a degree in nursing and a valid nursing license.

Look for the IBCLC certification and relevant experience in maternal and child health.

Additional training in neonatal care, nutrition, or child development would be beneficial.

It’s also important to look for soft skills like empathy, patience, and excellent communication skills, which are crucial in this role.

 

What qualities make a good Lactation Consultant Nurse Practitioner?

A good Lactation Consultant Nurse Practitioner is empathetic and patient, as they are dealing with new mothers who may be stressed or anxious.

They should be supportive and non-judgmental, offering practical advice and emotional support.

They need to have excellent problem-solving skills to address breastfeeding issues and should be passionate about promoting breastfeeding and the health benefits it provides.

 

Is it difficult to hire a Lactation Consultant Nurse Practitioner?

The difficulty in hiring a Lactation Consultant Nurse Practitioner can depend on your location and the availability of qualified professionals.

The role requires specific qualifications and experience, which can limit the pool of eligible candidates.

Offering competitive salaries and benefits, as well as a supportive work environment, can help attract qualified Lactation Consultant Nurse Practitioners.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve delved into the complex and rewarding world of being a lactation consultant nurse practitioner.

Surprised?

It’s not just about breastfeeding advice.

It’s about supporting new mothers and babies, one feeding at a time.

With our comprehensive lactation consultant nurse practitioner job description template and real-life examples, you’re ready to leap forward.

But why stop here?

Go further with our job description generator. It’s your golden ticket to precision-crafted job listings or honing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every feeding and consultation is a part of the bigger journey.

Let’s nurture that future. Together.

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