Are you a new LC, preparing to open a private practice, and confused about what should be in your visit bag? I was, too! Being well-prepared is key to providing exceptional care and support to new mothers and their babies. There are so many different pieces of equipment that you could bring along to a visit, but what do you actually need? That’s where I can help!
Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your existing toolkit, I’ll delve into the must-have items and helpful extras that can make a significant difference in your practice, ensuring that you're equipped to handle a wide range of breastfeeding challenges with expertise and ease. You’ll learn exactly what you need to stock your bag today.
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Equipment for the Visit
These are the basic tools that I need to conduct a home visit. I use my Supernote to capture the situation, history, and any additional notes about the dyad. The scale is used to do weighted feeds or to just get an idea of baby’s current weight. I use the stethoscope to confirm swallowing when breastfeeding. The gloves and the pen light are for the oral exam. Hand sanitizer and alcohol wipes are for my hands and my equipment, to ensure cleanliness.
Solving Problems
These are the tools that I may use for any breastfeeding problems that mom is having. I often use the breast models to teach what the nipple needs to do in the baby’s mouth and how to achieve a deep latch. The nipple ruler is helpful if I need to assess the size of mom’s nipples for breast pump flanges. Nipple shields are used occasionally if baby is having trouble with latch and hydrogels are sometimes given to moms with very sore or damaged nipples. The feeding accessories, such as feeding tubes and syringes, that I carry are used when baby needs to be supplemented.
Staying Organized
Besides keeping my supplies simple, just what I need, I also think it’s important to be organized. I found this great Scout bag that fits my scale and all of my supplies so I just have one thing to carry into my visits. To keep the bag organized I got a custom bag insert and I use labeled canvas bags.
The items in your bag are more than just tools; they represent tools to help you evaluate the dyad, solutions to common breastfeeding challenges, and a means to keep your practice organized and efficient. I’ve tried many different combinations of gear for my visits, but with trial and error I’ve narrowed it down to these few items. My motto: keep it simple!
Watch this video to learn how I made the custom organizer for my home visit bag. →
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