Preggo and working ICU

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Specializes in SICU trauma.

Hey all i started this new job in an ICU back in July. I finish my orientation mid Oct, and i just found out i'm pregnant. Few things: when and who should I tell that i'm pregnant? I miscarried at 18 weeks last year so i'm a little worried about telling people too soon, and I'm still so new! What do i need to be careful of now that i'm working and pregnant. Any feedback is appreciated. THanks!

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Specializes in Medical and general practice now LTC.

Hi and welcome to the site

I have moved your post to the general forum where I am sure you will get some answers

Good luck on the pregnancy

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Specializes in SICU, EMS, Home Health, School Nursing.

We have quite a few people working in the ICU where I work that are pregnant right now. Where I work, they do not frown upon pregnant nurses, so some nurses tell as soon as they find out they are pregnant. When and who you tell is totally up to you, wait until you are comfortable telling people. Are you planning on staying home when you have the baby or just taking some time off? I would recommend figuring out your plans and then going in and telling your nurse manager what your plans are just so he/she knows in advance what your intentions are without having to come to you and ask you about it.

Now that you are pregnant, you cannot work with people that have chicken pox or shingles, those with chemo precautions, etc. Especially be careful around x-rays, MRIs, CT scans, etc. As for lifting, etc talk to your doctor to get his/her recommendations. Most of the people where I work that are pregnant are fine with lifting and they currently don't have any restrictions.

Oh and Congrats!!!

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Specializes in Trauma ICU,ER,ACLS/BLS instructor.

I have survived a few pregnacies working in a critical care area. Also had my share of miscarrages when I was young. Good luck. Unfortunately, because of the seriousness of where u work, u almost have to tell ur co workers now. Radiology is always around, invasive procedures being done and such, make one want to be more careful, and ur co workers will help if they know. With universal precautions,you will be protected from most except airborne, so be careful. I really never worried. I am so careful with precautions that I felt fairly safe. I was always careful with lifting in the first three, getting more help then I usually would.

As far as telling ur boss, I would just let them know when u tell everyone else, sooner then later. They r use to planning for leaves. You r under no obligation to tell them right away, but it helps for vacations and such. Many nurses and other employees become pregnant soon after starting a job, one boss of mine would have said, "it is what it is",,,lol. Have fun and good luck!

christine

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Specializes in cardiac/education.

Sorry about your miscarriage. I just lost a baby so I know how hard that can be. I am wishing you a happy and healthy 9 mos!

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