RN Lactation Consultant - Peds Dept

MPF Federal is seeking a qualified Registered Nurse (RN) – Lactation Consultant to support the Pediatric Department at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth. This position is designated as mission essential and requires onsite clinical support during all scheduled clinic hours, including federally recognized holidays.

Compensation is pursuant to the Service Contract Act.

The RN Lactation Consultant will promote, protect, and support breastfeeding initiatives across the organization while delivering patient-centered care in accordance with established nursing standards, hospital policies, and evidence-based lactation practices.

Work Schedule & Hours

Primary Service Hours: Monday through Friday, 0600–1800
Shift Length: 8.5 to 10.5-hour shifts
Includes a 30–60 minute uncompensated meal break
Weekend Requirement: Approximately one (1) weekend per month on a rotational basis
Scheduling: Varied shifts Sunday through Saturday
Maximum Hours: Not to exceed eighty (80) hours per two-week period, inclusive of weekend and holiday services
Services required on all federally recognized holidays

Core Responsibilities

The Registered Nurse Lactation Consultant will provide services within the scope of practice and clinic policies, including but not limited to:

Lactation Program Leadership & Education

Actively promote breastfeeding throughout the Medical Treatment Facility
Develop and implement standards of care and breastfeeding guidelines
Collaborate with Pediatrics, OB/GYN, Family Practice, and Childbirth Education departments
Organize educational materials and prepare marketing materials to promote breastfeeding initiatives
Serve as a clinical expert and resource for breastfeeding mothers and healthcare staff

Patient Care & Clinical Support

Provide lactation consultations and breastfeeding assessments
Educate mothers and families on breastfeeding techniques, positioning, pumping, milk storage, and newborn feeding patterns
Develop individualized care plans for breastfeeding support
Assess and manage common lactation complications
Document patient care in accordance with established clinical standards
Respond effectively in emergency patient situations following established protocols

Documentation & Health Information Systems

Perform timely, accurate, and concise documentation of patient care
Operate and maintain proficiency in automated systems including MHS GENESIS, ADS, CIS, and other clinical information systems
Maintain legible records in accordance with clinic directives
Respond to DOD email and voicemail communications as required

Performance Improvement & Compliance

Participate in peer review and performance improvement activities
Comply with infection control policies and aseptic techniques
Participate in the Family Advocacy Program as directed
Attend and complete all required annual training, including disaster preparedness, infection control, CBRNE, and other mandatory MTF training
Participate in in-service training and provide clinical direction to supporting staff (e.g., corpsmen, students)
Attend meetings as directed and contribute to quality improvement initiatives

Team Collaboration & Professional Practice

Maintain productivity comparable to peers in similar roles
Exercise appropriate clinical delegation and coordinate care among healthcare team members
Maintain professional accountability and awareness of legal and ethical considerations
Support a safe, respectful, and patient-centered care environment
Participate in continuing education to support professional growth

Physical & Work Environment

Hospital-based clinical setting within the Pediatric Department
Frequent standing, walking, and patient interaction
Exposure to infectious diseases and medical hazards consistent with healthcare settings

Requirements

Competencies

Strong clinical lactation knowledge and assessment skills
Ability to educate and counsel patients and families effectively
Strong interdisciplinary collaboration skills
Ability to respond calmly and effectively in emergency situations
Knowledge of infection control and patient safety procedures
Proficiency with electronic medical record systems
Professional communication and interpersonal skills

Minimum Qualifications:

Education

Associates Degree in Nursing
Graduate from a college or university accredited by ACEN or CCNE

Experience

Minimum one (1) year of experience within the last two (2) years as a Registered Nurse
Two (2) letters of recommendation written within the last two (2) years attesting to clinical competence
At least one (1) letter must be from a physician or nurse practitioner who has personally observed the candidate’s clinical skills
Reference letters must include name, title, phone number, date, address, and signature of the individual providing the reference

Licensure

Current, full, active, and unrestricted Registered Nurse license

Certifications

Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification
Current Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) certification
Current certification as a Lactation Consultant through the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners (IBLCE)

Benefits

MPF Federal is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability. We offer a competitive compensation package including a competitive salary, medical benefits, PTO, holiday pay and more.