Expecting 2nd baby

Re: Expecting 2nd baby

Tracy Windler RVN — Thu, 31 May 2012 13:28:30 GMT

I like watching them, but restraining for them kills my back after a while! Especially when you have a cardiologist who has found a particularly interesting case and wants to go into very particular detail. Our u/s suite was also very warm and (obviously) dark, so you got really sleepy!

Re: Expecting 2nd baby

Fuzzyduck — Tue, 29 May 2012 22:43:24 GMT

[quote user="Tracy Windler RVN"]

excuse to avoid doing all the things that no one likes to do, like restraining for cardiac ultrasounds,

[/quote]

I LOVE restraining for cardiac ultrasounds!!! I would do that all pregnancy if i could :)

Re: Expecting 2nd baby

Tracy Windler RVN — Tue, 29 May 2012 19:16:43 GMT

To be fair, at 29 weeks, I find mopping really harsh on my back and hips and have done since about 20 weeks. I still do it, though! But I'd rather lift the fatty dogs than have to ask someone to do it for me, but then get left sweeping and mopping on my own! I just take a break inbetween rooms now. A heat pad on stand-by was good, but I can't cope with it in the heat now.

I have a large proportion of sole-charge duties, so I have had to get on with most aspects of nursing and don't really have a problem with it. I'm careful with Iso and xrays. But I do feel like I've put my body through the mill a bit and I'm going on maternity quite early. But I was so determined not to be one of those who use pregnancy as an excuse to avoid doing all the things that no one likes to do, like restraining for cardiac ultrasounds, cleaning floors and going on unpleasant house visits.

Saying that, every person and every pregnancy is different and we all have different problems or issues to deal with. So you shouldn't be made to feel like you have to do what a "normal" pregnant VN should do!

Re: Expecting 2nd baby

Gillian Mostyn — Tue, 29 May 2012 16:35:49 GMT

[quote user="dallinson"]He did think I was just wanting an easy life[/quote]

it does happen - I knew a nurse who wouldn't mop as she felt it was too strenuous...

Re: Expecting 2nd baby

dallinson — Mon, 28 May 2012 17:05:16 GMT

Hiya, thanks! Well we have come to a decision that I will see how it goes and what I feel comfortable doing. He did think I was just wanting an easy life but its more putting my baby and me at unnecessary risk. Hopefully I dont need to put my foot down and say no! x

Re: Expecting 2nd baby

Gillian Mostyn — Mon, 28 May 2012 13:25:13 GMT

Every situation is unique so really this is something that has to be discussed between you and your employer. It would be pointless for anyone to say 'just say you won't do it' if the staffing levels or rota at your workplace make this impossible.

An employer should always have a 'risk assessment' with a person whose status changes, be that due to pregnancy or chronic illness, and this usually takes the form of an informal meeting to discuss your concerns. Makes sure one is scheduled, and that you have a chance to discuss your feelings about your workload and see if a compromise can be reached. A good employer will (should) be grateful for your honesty and it avoids that horrible situation where either someone is moaning constantly, or else avoiding the work to the detriment of their colleagues.

Pregnancy is not an illness so you should be able to continue doing most parts of your job, but it is illegal for you to be in the room when power is connected to the xray machine and it is wise to avoid heavy lifting, handing certain drugs and some other things so if your employer ignores your concerns then you should seek further advice. (Just make sure it is the employer you deal with, and it isn't just other members of staff that are dictating your workload.)

Oh, and congratulations!