30 January 2012
Trust CONGRATULATES INFANT FEEDING CO-ORDINATOR
East Surrey Hospital congratulated Ann Mckeever, Infant feeding Co-ordinator, in the Maternity Unit, on passing the International Board Certified Lactation Consultant exam. She is only the second person to have the certification in the hospital trust.
Lactation consultants provide education and management advice to new mothers to prevent and solve breastfeeding problems. Ann advises new mothers who have problems getting a baby to feed. She advises on the positioning of the babies and explained that there can be feeding problems if a baby has been born prematurely, or if they are underweight.
Ann, who has five children of her own, is very passionate about breast feeding. She made monthly trips to University College Hospital in central London, networking with students from all over the world. As part of the course Ann studied physiology and counselling.
When it comes to breastfeeding, Ann believes that the more expectant mothers learn while they are pregnant, the better prepared they are to breastfeed successfully. She said, "When you know what to expect, things tend to go more smoothly." The International Board Certification is the only internationally recognised credential in breastfeeding support. The qualification is awarded by examination after long periods of study and practical experience in helping mothers to breastfeed.
Ann took the exam in July last year. "It was such a relief to find that I actually passed," she said.
Janice Blythman, midwifery Matron said, "I am delighted for Ann. She undertook this course in her own time and at her own expense. She is a truly inspiring example of what makes the NHS, and SASH, great institutions."