IBCLC Communication and Counseling 3

Question 1

A mother with postpartum depression is considering weaning because she believes her medication is unsafe during breastfeeding. What should the IBCLC do first?

Accepted Answer

Assess which medication she is taking and provide evidence-based information about its compatibility with breastfeeding

Answer

Support her decision to wean for her mental health

Answer

Tell her that all antidepressants are safe during breastfeeding

Answer

Refer her to a psychiatrist before discussing breastfeeding

Question 2

When counseling an adolescent mother about breastfeeding, which communication strategy is most important to employ?

Accepted Answer

Use age-appropriate language, shorter sessions, and peer support connections

Answer

Use the same approach as with adult mothers since the information is the same

Answer

Focus primarily on educating the grandmother who will likely make feeding decisions

Answer

Emphasize the cost savings of breastfeeding as the primary motivator

Question 3

A mother who speaks limited English is struggling to understand breastfeeding instructions. What is the most appropriate action?

Accepted Answer

Use a professional medical interpreter rather than relying on family members to translate

Answer

Speak more slowly and loudly

Answer

Use only hand gestures and demonstrations

Answer

Provide written instructions in English and assume a family member will translate

Question 4

An IBCLC is documenting a consultation. Which element is most critical to include from both a legal and clinical perspective?

Accepted Answer

An objective assessment of the feeding including infant latch, milk transfer, and the evidence-based rationale for recommendations

Answer

The mother's emotional state during the visit

Answer

A detailed personal history of the mother

Answer

The IBCLC's opinion about the mother's commitment to breastfeeding

Question 5

A mother's partner is insisting on giving formula against the mother's wishes. The mother appears distressed but remains silent. What is the IBCLC's role?

Accepted Answer

Privately assess the mother's wishes and advocate for her autonomous decision-making

Answer

Support the partner's decision since they are part of the family unit

Answer

Tell the partner that formula is harmful

Answer

Avoid getting involved in family disagreements

Question 6

Which counseling technique is most effective for helping a mother develop confidence in her ability to breastfeed?

Accepted Answer

Building self-efficacy through guided practice, positive reinforcement of successful behaviors, and incremental goal-setting

Answer

Telling her that breastfeeding is natural and she will figure it out

Answer

Comparing her progress favorably to other mothers

Answer

Providing extensive reading materials about breastfeeding