When to tell them I'm pregnant

[Tpschwandt]

I am currently only 6 weeks pregnant and I have an interview for a position I applied for before I knew I was pregnant. I currently work as a private duty nurse and this is for a hospital position. I am so excited and I really really really want to work in the hospital setting. I know it's just an interview and it doesn't mean I will get the job, but now I'm wondering when to tell them I'm pregnant?

Maybe in another career field it wouldn't be so important but in nursing, especially in a hospital, being pregnant means I won't be able to lift/ turn patients, and won't be able to take certain patients with infectious diseases. It also means that after I give birth I will need some time off. I don't plan on telling the interviewer that I'm pregnant because I may not get the job and don't want it too negatively impact my chances. But at the same time I worry that if I am offered the position and then reveal I'm pregnant I the offer will be redacted. Should I tell at the interview, when (if) I accept the job offer, or even after that. So unsure what to do! I plan on working until I give birth and I have no morning sickness or anything else that would prevent me from being a good nurse.

[SoldierNurse22, BSN, RN]

It is illegal for them to discriminate against you on the grounds of your pregnancy.

However, that doesn't mean they won't find another convenient excuse to let you go if they feel so inclined.

I'd wait. Wait until you've been through orientation and you're solidly on the floor with a few months of experience. Get copies of documentation from preceptors showing your progress. Get feedback in email/paper form that is traceable. That way you have your own records if you're let go for no apparent reason.

Chances are, you'll be fine. But if you're not having symptoms and planning to continue working after your pregnancy, I'd wait until I was 3-4 months along before spilling the beans to an employer unless something forced my hand (work conditions, as you previously mentioned).

Congrats and good luck!

[beckyboo1, BSN, RN]

If you have a normal pregnancy, there is no reason you can't help turn and lift patients within reason. I have had 3 children as a nurse. I didn't not expect others to turn my patients just because I was pregnant.

[Nurse SMS, MSN, RN]

You will not get out of lifting/turning patients just because you are pregnant - the perceived risk to you or the baby has gone away with the dark ages (exception would be a medical condition certified by your doctor, but if you are healthy individual with a healthy pregnancy this will not be warranted). Short of giving chemo and being exposed to conditions known to be dangerous to the fetus (there aren't that many), you won't get out of caring for isolation rooms either. These are things for you to consider before you pursue this job.

I would reveal your pregnancy around the time it starts to reveal itself. You are under no obligation to disclose it at the time of hire.