IBCLC - Certification Equipment and Technology Flashcards

What is the main advantage of a manual pump over an electric pump?

Answer: Portability and user control over suction rhythm

Manual pumps are lightweight, portable, quiet, and allow the user to control the suction rhythm, making them convenient for occasional use or travel.

Which assessment tool allows an IBCLC to directly evaluate an infant's tongue movement, palatal integrity, and sucking strength?

Answer: Gloved finger assessment

A gloved finger inserted into the infant's mouth allows the IBCLC to assess tongue movement, palatal integrity, sucking strength, and oral motor coordination tactilely.

Hands-on pumping (breast massage combined with pumping) has been shown to:

Answer: Increase milk fat content and total milk output

Research shows that combining breast massage with pumping significantly increases total milk output and milk fat content compared to pumping alone.

Which breast pump component requires the most frequent replacement to maintain suction efficacy?

Answer: Valve or membrane

Valves and membranes are small, flexible parts that wear out with repeated use and cleaning, causing decreased suction as they degrade.

A mother exclusively pumping for a NICU infant should aim to pump a minimum of how many times per 24 hours in the first weeks?

Answer: 8-10 times

To establish and maintain a full milk supply, exclusively pumping mothers should aim for 8-10 sessions per 24 hours, mimicking the frequency of a breastfeeding newborn.

What is the recommended method for sanitizing breast pump parts that contact breast milk, especially for NICU infants?

Answer: Washing with soap and water followed by sterilization per CDC guidelines

CDC guidelines recommend washing pump parts with soap and water after each use and sanitizing daily by boiling, steam bag, or dishwasher with heated dry, especially for NICU infants.