Getting anxious...returning back to work after maternity leave

[MIcrunchyRN]

I'm getting nervous about going back to work! My DS is 2 months old (9weeks) and I go back to work in one week. I technically will be orientating as I was put on bedrest half way thru my orientation.

Any tips for going back?

[NotReady4PrimeTime, RN]

My kneejerk reaction to your post is to tell you to take longer! But that's not an option, obviously. You'll have to figure out how to turn off the mom-brain and focus on work. Don't let yourself get too tired because you won't be very effective in either of your roles if you can't hold it together. Don't be tempted to use your new parenthood as a crutch, but don't let people walk all over you either. Ask for consistency in preceptors and assignments so you can get off to the best start possible. And try to have some fun. Your new coworkers will have lots of advice for you. Be picky about what you take to heart, because you don't have to listen to it all!