new job

[meatballsRN]

I recently moved to the south where I took a L&D job. I had worked in an antepartum unit prior to this at a fairly baby-friendly hospital. I loved the facility I worked, but chances of getting a L&D position were extremely slim. Wanting to be an L&D nurse, we moved. I am now at a hospital that is the total opposite of baby friendly. Babies (all babies) are taken from moms immediately after delivery to the nursery where they stay for two to three hours. Babies are gastric suctioned (all babies) immediately after birth. Nearly all babies are bottle-fed. I had one couple who decided to breastfeed. I taught the parents hunger cues the baby would give and told them it was best to feed on cue. Another nurse came into the room and said the baby was eating too often and should not eat more than every 3-4 hours!!! I was shocked. I have asked why we gastric suction babies and no one can give a clear answer. Its just the way we have always done it is the answer I receive. I want to move on to a different hospital but do not know how long I should stick it out where I am. I don't want to be a job-hopper, but it is difficult for me. I don't feel what I am doing is best for moms, babies or families. How long should I stick it out and does anyone have a suggestion of where a good hospital is? We have family in several states we are considering: Texas (dallas area) North Carolina, Tennessee and New Hampshire. Any advice???

[pcbnurse]

I would look at positions in California... the patients are educated, most use midwives or doulas.

[SmilingBluEyes]

I am shocked to read any hospital operating this way these days....WOW. I would not want to work there. Unless they were open to learning evidence-based practices and using them, you would be absolutely miserable.

[LoveANurse09]

With your expereince thus far I would think you have a great chance of finding another position. Start looking! There is nothing wrong with disagreeing with the practices of a facility. As to which states to look in..not sure. Reasearch hospital website for "baby-friendly" hospitals or birth centers.