Breastfeeding and Suspected Pregnancy - Vaccines for CNA Program

Nursing Students CNA/MA

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Hi, I was planning on starting a CNA program next month but might be pregnant now. I don't know if I should just delay starting or try to work with the school to delay the TB and Tdap? I already have the others that are required. I'm breastfeeding, too, and read that TB is not recommended when breastfeeding. Has anyone had experience with being pregnant/breastfeeding and starting a program without all of the vaccines? I hate to keep pushing back getting my CNA. Thanks.

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Specializes in mental health / psychiatic nursing.

Step 1. Confirm that you are actually pregnant. If you aren't there isn't any point in worrying about whether or not you can have the vaccines. You can just go get them.

Step 2. If you are pregnant, talk to your healthcare provider about the vaccines you need for CNA training, and which ones may be recommended or not recommend for pregnant women. If you can't receive a vaccine because of pregnancy they likely are able to write you a note for medical exception for the CNA course. (However, If I remember correctly from looking this up for a class Tdap is strongly recommended for pregnant women, and TB testing is safe)

If you are pregnant you will want to be coordinating with both the program and your healthcare provider as to what, if any, accommodations may need to be made.

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I see you have already received some excellent advice. Another option would be to have titers done. If you have health insurance, it may or may not be covered. If you have to pay for this, it is a bit pricey, but it may be worth it to avoid any unnecessary vaccinations.

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Thank you! I know I'm kind of putting the cart before the horse, but I was so excited to get started and panicked a bit that I may have to delay. I'll have to wait a couple weeks to know for sure. I hope if I am and can't get something that the school will work with me. I have insurance so I can call about titers.

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You're welcome. Good luck! :)

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