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Southern Seven Health Department

WIC Breastfeeding Peer Counselor

Southern Seven Health Department, Metropolis, Illinois, United States, 62960

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Job Description

Job Description

WIC Breast Feeding Peer Counselor Essential Functions Works directly with clients (mother to mother) in obtaining information and follow-up visits as outlined in Agency and State WIC policy and procedure. Completes required client records and maintains security, accuracy and completeness of written records and electronic databases. Performs keyboard data entry of client information as required. Maintains WIC Breastfeeding Peer Counselor workbook; keeps organized, updated, and available at all times. Seeks input from Maternal & Child Health Program Manager & Director of Nursing when dealing with unusual situations or difficult clients. Documents and keeps all records of all contacts made with WIC mothers (clients) and uses only approved abbreviations as approved abbreviations, as listed in the Agency policy and procedures. Assists WIC Clinic staff as needed or as requested by the Maternal & Child Health Program Manager. Be familiar and complies with the requirements of the policies and procedures adopted by Southern Seven Health Department as required by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). Keeps all client information strictly confidential. Receives a caseload of WIC mothers (clients) and makes routine periodic contacts with all mothers (clients) assigned. Provides basic breastfeeding information and support to new mothers (clients), including telling them about the benefits of breastfeeding, overcoming common barriers, preventing and handling common breastfeeding concerns, and getting a good start with breastfeeding. Talks with WIC pregnant and breastfeeding mothers (clients) by telephone, texting, and face to face visits in the clinic settings at scheduled intervals determined by the local WIC program. Is available outside the WIC Clinic and the usual 8:30 – 4:30 working schedule to new mothers who are having breastfeeding problems. This is counted as work time. Refers mothers (clients), according to clinic-established protocols, to:

WIC CHP/RN and Maternal & Child Health Program Manager Lactation consultant (CLC) Mother's physician or nurse

Attends and assists with prenatal classes and breastfeeding support groups. Attends staff meetings and breastfeeding

conferences/workshops

as determined by the Maternal & Child Health Program Manager. Reads assigned books and materials on breastfeeding that are provided by the Maternal & Child Health Program Manager. May assist WIC staff in promoting breastfeeding peer counseling through special projects and duties as assigned.

Training

Component Participates in continuing education and staff development through seminars, conferences, or workshops at personal or departmental expense as deemed appropriate be the Supervisor.

Qualifications WIC BREASTFEEDING PEER COUNSELOR:

Has breastfed at least one baby (does not have to be currently breastfeeding). Is enthusiastic about breastfeeding and wants to help other mothers enjoy a positive experience. Attends breastfeeding training classes to become a peer counselor. Can work 10 hours a week. Utilizes agency cell phone for peer counselor contacts only. Has reliable transportation.

Education, Training, and Experience

High school diploma or GED equivalent

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Knowledge and use of modern office practices and procedures including basic computer skills. Knowledge and use of English language, grammar and spelling including neat, legible, and appropriate sentence structure. Compose and format correspondence. Knowledge and use of appropriate telephone etiquette including the use of the agency and personal name. Ability to carry out detailed but basic oral and written instructions. Communicate effectively in written and verbal form. Perform basic arithmetic calculations. Self-motivated, acts independently and initiates programmatic ideas.

Certification and Other Requirements

Required: Criminal background check; employee physical assessment; valid drivers' license, and automobile liability insurance. Recommended: CPR, First Aid, Hepatitis B Vaccine Maintain home or message telephone

Physical Requirements

Strength: Lift/carry up to 20 pounds on occasion and up to 10 pounds frequently. Movement:

Routine: Sit, walk or stand for prolonged periods of time. Lift horizontally and vertically, bend and stoop, push/pull, twist, carry, crouch, squat. Kneel, climb, and reach above shoulder level. Hear and understand speech at normal room levels and on the telephone. Drive an automobile. Occasional: Use near visual acuity to review both written documents and text on computer monitor. Operate a telephone, keyboard and mouse.

Blood Borne Pathogen: Occasional Occupational Exposure.

Location Base location will be negotiable depending on applicant's location and preference.

Salary Range Starting off

$15.00

an hour

Southern Seven Health Department is an "Equal Opportunity

Employer/Vet/Disabled "