IBCLC - Certification Ethics and Professional Conduct Questions and Answers

Question 1

An IBCLC maintains a private practice and is also a distributor for a specific brand of breast pump.
During a consultation for low milk supply, the IBCLC recommends this particular pump to the client without mentioning their financial relationship with the company.
Which ethical principle has been primarily violated?

Accepted Answer

Failure to disclose a conflict of interest

Answer

Practicing outside the scope of practice

Answer

Breach of client confidentiality

Answer

Inadequate documentation of care

Question 2

During a home visit, a mother shows the IBCLC a red, splotchy rash on her 3-week-old infant's abdomen and asks, "What is this? It looks like a heat rash to me, what do you think?" What is the MOST appropriate response for the IBCLC?

Accepted Answer

"Diagnosing medical conditions is outside my role, so it's important to have your pediatrician take a look at that rash."

Answer

"It does look like a typical newborn rash, which is usually harmless."

Answer

"Let's search for images of newborn rashes online to see if we can identify it."

Answer

"You should avoid any new lotions, but if it gets worse, call your doctor."

Question 3

An IBCLC has a very rewarding consultation and wishes to share the experience. The IBCLC posts the following on a large, private social media group for lactation professionals: "Incredible day! Worked with a family whose baby has a confirmed diagnosis of a very rare genetic syndrome. We struggled with positioning, but the 'dancer hand' hold was a game-changer! Mom was so relieved!" Why is this post an ethical violation?

Accepted Answer

The combination of details could make the client identifiable.

Answer

It constitutes a form of client advertising.

Answer

It shares a clinical technique that may not work for others.

Answer

It was posted during work hours, which is unprofessional.

Question 4

An IBCLC who works in a hospital setting is offered a case of formula samples and branded pacifiers by a formula company representative to share with patients. According to the International Code of Marketing of Breast-milk Substitutes (WHO Code), what is the IBCLC's most ethical action?

Accepted Answer

Politely decline the samples and materials.

Answer

Accept the items but only give them to mothers who specifically ask for formula.

Answer

Accept the items for use in demonstrations on safe formula preparation only.

Answer

Accept the items and give them to the unit manager to distribute.

Question 5

A client tearfully tells a new IBCLC, "My last lactation consultant was awful. She just told me I should quit because my nipples are flat and it would never work." Which of the following is the most professional initial response?

Accepted Answer

"That sounds like very frustrating advice. Let's focus on your goals today and see what we can accomplish together."

Answer

"Wow, that's terrible. You should definitely file a complaint with IBLCE about her."

Answer

"I'm sorry you had that experience. Some consultants are just not as skilled as others."

Answer

"Who was that? I know most of the LCs in this area and I can't imagine who would say that."

Question 6

Which of the following is an essential component of the informed consent process that an IBCLC must complete before providing hands-on assistance or initiating a plan of care?

Accepted Answer

Explaining the proposed plan, its potential benefits and risks, and obtaining the client's permission to proceed.

Answer

Having the client sign a form that guarantees a positive outcome.

Answer

Providing the client with a list of all other IBCLCs in the area.

Answer

Documenting the client's complete prenatal and birth history.