Will IBCLC help me get into LDRP?

[ladybugsea]

I have been thinking about sitting for the IBCLC exam this summer (I'm a LLL Leader and new RN, so all I need is the 45hrs lactation specific education). I need to decide ASAP because deadlines are looming and I need to complete the education hours first. Will having this certification help me get a job? My goal is to work in LDRP, not as a LC (but I would). I know it can't hurt, but it's a lot of time and money, and I'm not sure it's going to help me get the job I want. I also don't think there are a lot of LC jobs around here right now, and not sure a hospital would hire me as an LC with no experience working as a nurse. I should also mention that I'm a new grad in an area where there are no jobs in acute care this year. I will probably take a job in LTC soon (I was waiting to see what January would bring, but there are hiring freezes and lay-offs instead of new grad orientations, unfortunately). I graduated first in my class, did an externship in a SCN, and have great references and none of that is helping me (plus a MS in another field). But I figure I have a lot of time to study right now, and I am so fresh from the mindset of all those nursing school exams that now may be a good time to do this, if I am ever going to do it. Thanks!

[RNBelle]

forgive me, I don't know what IBCLC is. As far as getting into a LDRP unit it just depends on the hospital. I work in a small hospital and you don't need any experience to work L&D. Some bigger hospitals want you to have experience. And sometimes they say they want experience but you might be able to convince the manager that you are the best fit for the job. The certification might help with getting a job. It will definitely help when helping new mom's breastfeed. I do L&D and do not know nearly enough about breastfeeding.

[Elvish, BSN, DNP, RN, NP]

RNBelle - IBCLC = International Board Certified Lactation Consultant

Ladybugsea - if being an LC is something you really want to do, it won't hurt you to go ahead and take the exam. But you are right, it is a lot of time and money. If neither is an issue for you, go for it. One thing you might want to consider, however, is that some places offer reimbursement for things like the IBCLC exam if you pass. (Economy being what it is, some may stop doing this.) You might want to consider that before investing your own money.

Not trying to sway you one way or the other, just food for thought. Good luck to you, whatever you decide, and best of luck to you in the job search. :)

[klone, MSN, RN]

Yes, I think that it would help. It certainly wouldn't hurt! It would especially help if you got a job on a unit where the RNs rotate and are also expected to do nsy and couplet, in addition to L&D. Some units are specialized, and if you're hired for L&D, it's JUST L&D.