Jennifer has been working as the Lactation Consultant for over 11 years at Children's Hospital of San Antonio. She was the only Lactation Consultant for most of that time. She was instrumental in implementing the Texas Ten Step Program to promote breastfeeding and "Rooming In" or couplet care at the Children's Hospital, which was about 9 years ago.
During that time, she also helped the hospital set the goal and begin the journey towards the "Baby Friendly USA Designation". That goal is about to be achieved as the "Baby Friendly" surveyors will be arriving at the Children's Hospital soon to evaluate for Baby Friendly Designation Status. This will mean that Children's Hospital of San Antonio will be the first Baby Friendly Hospital in San Antonio.
What has this meant for the mothers and babies at Children's Hospital of San Antonio? Mothers and babies remain together after delivery, skin-to-skin, and breastfeeding within that first hour and remain together for the remainder of their hospital stay. This time together improves bonding, breastfeeding, temperature stability, soothing, and improvement in milk production. The benefits of breastfeeding for both mothers and babies last a lifetime.
Jennifer has been teaching and supporting mothers and nurses in the Baby Friendly journey. She is at the bedside of almost every mother and baby, encouraging, supporting, educating, and advocating for them. She is their support person even after they go home and need follow up advice and additional teaching. She is one nurse who has made an impact on thousands! She delivers excellent care in a compassionate and courteous manner. Her patients are always first. Jennifer is an extraordinary nurse!