LVN & Extra Certifications

Published

Specializes in Psych, OB-GYN.

I'm a fairly new LVN - >1 yr experience. I just started a new job on Postpartum. I'm absolutely stoked, since BSN and L&D is my ultimate goal. I stumbled upon this course: Independent Study Breast Feeding Counselor http://www.childbirtheducation.org/in_breas.html

I was just wondering if any had taken it, what exactly is the end result ($300 for JUST CUs??) Does it ad some sort of certification that I can place in my resume, or is just an expensive CEU??? Does the Certificate expire like BLS??

Thanks for any insight! While I'm waiting on BSN acceptance, I'd like to get ahead any way I can!

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Community, OB, Nursery.

I appreciate your passion! :)

I checked out the link and here's my honest take: don't do it. Most places - inpatient or outpatient - want you to be an IBCLC, and that's not what this would be offering. It sounds like you would be shelling out a lot of money for something that would not be as marketable as an IBCLC.

It's great that you want to help breastfeeding women while working toward your BSN (if I'm reading correctly). I'd look into attending/assisting/leading some La Leche League meetings, as that might count toward your counseling hours for the IBCLC exam. Better use of your time and not nearly as expensive. Just my $.02. :)

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Complex pedi to LTC/SA & now a manager.

It seems what you found a link to is a prep course to take a certification exam (that is valid for 3 years) http://www.childbirtheducation.org/bst_exam.html

I would verify that an LPN is eligible for the certification (1yr experience is required for the exam) some exams refer to licensed nurses but are referring to RN only. edited: this program is for registered nurses only, LPN's are not eligible.

In the FAQ's PCE explains that "breastfeeding counselor", "breastfeed counselor" and "lactation counselor" are all synonyms, and not are equivalent to the level of IBCLC.

I think you got some great advice above.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Nurse Leader specializing in Labor & Delivery.

As Elvish already said, the only lactation certification that would be at all marketable in OB would be an IBCLC. That said, I have a friend who is an LPN/LVN and has her IBCLC and works for a large hospital network in the area as an inpatient lactation consultant.

So if you're hoping to go into lactation, I would look towards getting your IBCLC (you can read more about how to do that at http://www.iblce.org). If you're looking for certifications to "beef up" your resume, I'd look at BLS, ACLS, and NRP.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Psych, OB-GYN.

Thank you all so much - love the advice here!

Elvish, thanks. I have finished my pre reqs, just hoping and praying for an acceptance letter! I've just been looking around for stuff to expand my knowledge so that L&D is easier to reach as a new RN (around here, that's not an easy floor to get!)

Klone, I will be taking PALS & NRP within the next 60 days as it's required for my new job. I have a passion for bf'ing, so I will look into ILCBC.

If anyone has any other thoughts/suggestions, I'd love to hear!!

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in LTC.

As a LPN I would really, really watch Certs and CEU's there are quite a few only available to RNs.

I just wanted to say I'm a little envious of your new position.

Where I live LPNs aren't taken seriously as nurses and are only used in LTC or limited clinical areas such as a MDs office. No hospital in my town will utilize a LPN, not even the rehab or acute step down setting.

God Luck with your BSN and enjoy your new position :)

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Psych, OB-GYN.
As a LPN I would really, really watch Certs and CEU's there are quite a few only available to RNs.

I just wanted to say I'm a little envious of your new position.

Where I live LPNs aren't taken seriously as nurses and are only used in LTC or limited clinical areas such as a MDs office. No hospital in my town will utilize a LPN, not even the rehab or acute step down setting.

God Luck with your BSN and enjoy your new position :)

Thanks for the advice. Most of the time I try to look, but never noticed this restriction. And my area is typically the same way with LVNS - only not many LTC even utilize them - mostly MD offices (though they are moving towards MAs) and nursing homes. Out of all of the nurses orienting, around 30 or so, I'm the ONLY LVN. I feel very fortunate!! The DON must have seem something special.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Join the Discussion