new job and pregnant

[missy0090]

I have just started a new job as an RN in LTC, I am still in my probationary period for another 2 months. I just found out I am 5 weeks pregnant, no dr's confirmation yet as I'd like to call it. I work in a facility that has really old beds that you have to lift it up to elevate the HOB to give HS meds. Some of my co-workers know and are great at helping lift those heavy beds. Some have guessed coz I apparently looked flushed and seem hungry all the time and some overheard me talking to a very close friend who is also a nurse. I have been complemented at how well I do my job but there were still things I missed and were addressed that I have changed. This is my first job as an RN and I have not worked for a couple of years so I really do need this job. I am worried that someone will tell the DON and then I get confronted to admit it. Can someone share some light what I can do? I am just worried that while I am in my probationary period, they will have some excuse to let me go because I'm pregnant and will be a great liability. I know it is discrimination to do so but since I'm not "officially hired" yet I don't wanna risk them making something else up. I don't know how the DON is when it comes to these matters but I don't think she'll look at it in a great light just from what I've observed.

[Asystole RN]

When you see the OB-GYN make sure you talk to the physician about your work and safe levels of physical exertion. Pregnancy is a protected class, as you know, and the probationary term really means nothing.

I work in an "At-Will" state where we can be fired for any reason at anytime, we are all in a probationary position lol.

Your manage will not risk the legal repercussions for even being accused of discriminating against a protected class. In fact, I would recommend making your pregnancy public knowledge and tell her, she would have an incentive to keep you on to keep herself from being viewed as discriminatory.

Unfortunately you will not be eligible for FMLA so your job will not be protected should you try to take leave.

Good luck.

[missy0090]

Thank you for the advice! That was a really good way of shedding some light into the situation. I am planning on telling the DON the next day because I want it to come from me. I do know I will not have worked for 12 mos by the time I am due so I can't get FMLA and we have no paid maternity leave either so I do want to be back at work as soon as I feel I am physically able to by then. Thanks again for the great advice