Re: Re: the great scale dilemma

March 30, 2012

Thanks Donna,

I have a scale, but was told it wasn't sensitive enough and that it had to

measure 1g and that the 5g wasn't sensitive enough. The moms I have worked with

so far are generally ordered by their physicians to come in for weekly or twice-

weekly weight checks anyway. Since I myself have seen how scales can differ I

always recommend they follow progress on the same scale (I don't have an office,

but I may need to find a way to set something up so they can be followed on my

scale). I've never encountered a mom who seemed to really need the test

weights. The trending weights have been enough for me so far and I do follow

these moms to insure their babies are gaining weight effectively. There are

plenty of LCs in my area that I could refer to if necessary for the really

tough cases. We have very high level NICUs in our area and generally moms

needing that kind of care get the help through them and would not see someone in

PP.

I did find a used scale that measures 1g and have asked friends to let me

practice test weighing their babies so I can get the hang of it.

I've been looking up as much research as I can find, but so far I'm only finding

studies with preterm infants transitioning out of the NICU. This to me is

definitely a reason to use such a sensitive scale, but generally they have

already had this done before they come to me. So far my work consists primarily

of weaning off formula, getting a baby latched properly and handling oversupply.

I'm just not seeing moms right now that need that extra service, but I so run

into one I'll be ready.

Heinz, BA IBCLC

Beach Babies Lactation Support, LLC

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