Inpatient Lactation Specialist & Patient Education Champion

Mary Washington Healthcare; Stafford (VA); On-site; USD 47,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Mary Washington Healthcare in Stafford, VA is seeking a Lactation Specialist to provide inpatient lactation support, education, and clinical guidance to breastfeeding parents and their infants. This role partners with nurses, physicians, and the care team to develop individualized plans, document progress in the electronic medical record, and contribute to department education and policy improvements.

Candidates should have IBCLC certification and an RN license (VA) or ability to obtain one,

Qualifications

• IBCLC certification required or progress toward certification with plan to sit within 1 year.
• RN license from Virginia or compact state required or preferred.
• Experience in breastfeeding counseling or maternal-infant health preferred.
• Associate degree in nursing, health education, nutrition, or related field required.
• Pass IBCLC exam within 1 year of hire.

Responsibilities

• Provide inpatient lactation consultations and evidence-based guidance for postpartum patients and infants.
• Support high-risk dyads including premature or medically complex infants.
• Develop and deliver breastfeeding education in 1-on-1 or group settings.
• Collaborate with physicians, nurses, and allied health teams to coordinate lactation plans.
• Document all assessments, teaching, interventions, and progress in the EMR.
• Participate in rounds, quality initiatives, and policies related to lactation.
• Assist with maintaining lactation equipment and supplies.
• Serve as a resource on best practices and clinical standards for breastfeeding management.
• Follow safety protocols and infection control.

Skills

IBCLC Certification

RN License VA/Compact

Lactation Counseling

Team Collaboration

Education

Associate's degree in nursing, Health Education, Nutrition, or related healthcare field

Job description

Mary Washington Healthcare in Stafford, VA is seeking a Lactation Specialist to provide inpatient lactation support, education, and clinical guidance to breastfeeding parents and their infants. This role partners with nurses, physicians, and the care team to develop individualized plans, document progress in the electronic medical record, and contribute to department education and policy improvements.

Candidates should have IBCLC certification and an RN license (VA) or ability to obtain one,