Silly question about pregnancy!

[misscherie]

Hi guys,

This may be a silly question but what happens if I get pregnant? Do nurses normally keep working many months into the pregnancy? At what point do you normally take maternity leave? Just a few months before the birth?

And is it safe to keep working throughout the pregnancy? My friend was saying "but arent you worried that if you walk around with your belly and with all the stress and bugs and diseases, that your baby might be at risk"

Thoughts anyone?

[GooeyRN, ADN, BSN, CNA, LPN, RN]

I worked through all 3 of mine. I wash my hands well so I don't worry about it. 2 of my pregnancies I worked med/surg and was able to do full duties including lifting, the other psych. I was nervous I was going to get hurt by a patient while working psych. But I didn't, and all was fine. As long as you don't have medical issues, I don't see why you can't work through a pregnancy.

[wee_oneRN]

Your baby is going to be protected by all of your antibodies! I'm still working, 10 weeks to go and my only complaint is back pain >.

If you work with chemo or radiation frequently, I would maybe consider adjusting to a new dept or area, but otherwise, go for it!

[skylark, BSN, RN]

If you work with chemo or radiation frequently, I would maybe consider adjusting to a new dept or area, but otherwise, go for it!

I agree with that, also don't work in a transplant area, as the anti-rejection drugs will be harmful.

Some areas are just too heavy when pregnant, ER is one because of the CPR . Its also risky because of the 'pyrexias of unknown origin', especially in places with a high immigrant or tourist population. I do know nurses who work in downtown ERs with patients from abroard with malaria, TB, and cholera, but personally I would not take the risk.

[winnowill]

I had to go on leave about a month before I had my second child. My legs would swell up and I had no energy at all. My body just couldn't take it. But there was a CNT at my last job that went into labor at work. The supervisor actually drove her to the hospital.

[EyesMetOverCadaver]

Right, I agree with everyone else. As long as your pregnancy is going normally, you'll be fine!! Just be sure to listen to your body and go to all your prenatal appointments! Congratulations on the pregnancy, so exciting!