RNMom1969

We routinely put 10 units in 500-100cc LR (whatever is left in bag from labor- if there is less than 55, I will mix a fresh bag) and open the fluid, at delivery of placenta, until bleeding is under control. If bleeding is heavy, we will add another 10units, but that is MD call, not nursing! The initial 10 units is also MD call, not nursing, but it is expected and we always have it ready to go. Once bleeding is controlled and uterus is nice and firm, I will slow the fluids to about 125cc/hr. Hope this helps! Joyce

Absolutely! You can be pro-life, as I am, and work as an OB nurse. I have no difficulty explaining my stand on the issue to fellow co-workers as well. At my hospital, there are occasionally terminations done between 18-22 weeks. These are ONLY extreme cases.......anecephalic, trisomy 18 etc. To be involved with the "induction" is purely voluntary. We DO have the right to refuse. In these cases, these patients need as much support and help as they can get. I know it's not an easy decision for them to make. I also know I cannot give them what they need.....I just can't do it. So, I opt to stay off the "team". There are many wonderful nurses who ARE able to give more of themselves than I am able to.... Joyce PS we do not do "routine" abortions........least not in L&D

I work at a large hospital (800+ births/month) and LOVE it. I was previously at a smaller (50-100/month) hospital. I found it to be slightly boring. In the smaller, I was split between nursery, postpartum and L&D. I found that frustrating. Here, I am strictly LDR, which is what I wanted to be doing. It all depends on your activity level. Yes, it is very busy, but that is what I like. We still work on a one to one ratio 99% of the time. That is something very important you should look into! No more than 2 in early labor, 1 in active! Good luck in whatever you decide! Joyce

No AROM for nurses here in Rhode Island either....thank god! Don't we already have enough to do? :) Joyce