Hired at 7 months pregnant, now what?

Nurses General Nursing

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Hello everyone,

I'm new here so please bear with me as I figure everything out :)

So, I just graduated as an LPN in July, took my boards August 1st and passed! I unexpectedly got pregnant in the last few months of school, and am currently 7 months along. My EDD is November 12th. I applied for a few jobs that were PRN or per diem, knowing that it would be unfair to any employer that they hire me for any full time positions. So, I interviewed yesterday (in a loose fitting shirt, mind you) with a healthcare company that does pop-up flu and wellness clinics and it went fabulous; In fact, it went so well that they said they'd like to keep me as an employee even after flu season in their home care department, where they typically don't hire new grads- which has me even more worried about how to break the news. I am not planning to take an extended leave, and I'd really like to be a part of this company long term. I'm scheduled to attend orientation on the 29th, where I'm likely going to be filling out my new hire paperwork. I'm wondering if I should break the news then, or wait until after? I'm excited to have found my first nursing job, but also so afraid of how things could go. I don't want them to think I was being deceitful, but I preferred that they got to know me during the interview without having a biased opinion based on my pregnancy. What do you all think would be the best way to approach this?

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Specializes in ER, PCU, UCC, Observation medicine.

You need to tell them now so the employer has immediate backup. If you're due in November assuming your baby isn't early you're going to put your employer in a tough spot (in the peak of flu season mind you) when you have to leave after a month or two being on the job.

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You're in a difficult position, because relating this news now will seem that you were withholding pertinent information. I understand your quandary and my heart goes out to you. You have worked so hard to be where you are. In my experience, being upfront and honest is the best way to go. Disclosing your pregnancy at the end of a productive interview would have been ideal, but now I would just be as real as possible...tell your prospective employer that you are thrilled with he opportunity and were not expecting such a wonderful offer in your 3rd trimester. If they are incredulous, apologize for any confusion, saying that you felt your condition was obvious.

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Does not appear to be the right position for you. You would not be able to fulfill your job description as a flu clinic nurse. The company is doing you no favors USING you for home care. That position needs prior experience.

You might as well inform them of your condition before the orientation. If they don't want a pregnant employee, you will not be finishing the orientation.

There are plenty of temporary flu clinic jobs out there.. perhaps try one of those while you transition to motherhood.

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Thank you all for your input. After wrestling with the idea, I emailed the HR rep that I initially interviewed with and anxiously awaited his response. He called me a few hours ago and told me that they'd still love to have me, and that taking a leave in November will not be a problem. I'm starting to wonder if I was just overthinking things. Thank you all for your thoughtful responses!

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Specializes in Specializes in L/D, newborn, GYN, LTC, Dialysis.

You received some good advice. I just want to congratulate you on your baby-to-be.

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Thank you! :)

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