A Gaithersburg SUCCESS STORY on Patient-Centered Care

Brianna was four months postpartum when she came to CCI for breast pain. She initially went to the emergency room concerned about breast engorgement and was diagnosed with mastitis. They gave her antibiotics and told her not to feed the baby on the affected breast. This was a red flag for CCI clinician, Ashley Dozier, who was overseeing Brianna’s care.

First, Ashley immediately went into educating Brianna on the cause of mastitis and what to do to relieve symptoms, including feeding the baby on the affected side, correct latch methods, and how to conduct breast massages in addition to prescribing antibiotics to clear the infection.

Next, Ashley performed a breast exam and asked Brianna if she was ever taught how to hand express her breast milk. Brianna replied “no” and explained that the ER was not helpful. Ashley saw this as another moment to connect with Brianna and showed her how to hand express her breast milk into a sterile cup. By the end of her visit, Brianna cried tears of joy to be relieved of pain. She was so happy and grateful.

At her two-week follow-up appointment, Brianna expressed how happy she was with the care she received. She communicated that she went to so many providers and did not receive half of the care that she received from CCI that day.

This kind of care is why I am here at CCI.

“I made the transition from bedside nursing and became a nurse practitioner because I wanted to make a positive impact in the primary care setting.

My love for breastfeeding and education has given me the drive to seek my certification as an International Board of Lactation Consultant (IBCLC). Having this certification will allow me to better assist my breastfeeding patients.

When I was at the bedside, I was a big advocate for my breastfeeding patients, and I remain the same as a clinician today.”

Ashley Dozier MSN, APRN, WHNP-BC Gaithersburg OB/GYN clinician