Practicing Nursing While Pregnant It used to be that if a nurse became pregnant, they would be let go from the job. Of course, that was a number of years ago. Now, however, women often continue working throughout their pregnancy, and some work right up until the end. Concerns for Expecting Nurses Standing and walking for long hours can cause complications during pregnancy. In some cases, feet and ankle swelling can occur, especially at the end of the pregnancy. However, this does not necessarily mean you cannot continue working; you just may need to make a few adjustments. Inquire if you can work a desk job temporarily. Some hospitals will allow a nurse to be on light duty for a specific period of time. Answering and directing calls from call buttons, and answering incoming calls from outside the facility. Some may allow a nurse on light duty to help with charting and speaking with insurance companies. When sitting at a desk to work, try to keep swollen feet elevated at least 50% of the time, it will help ease pain and reduce swelling. Related: How to Deal with Work Gossip -
Contamination from sick patients can be a concern. Pregnant women are often at risk of contracting flu, or something more serious. For most people, it's simple to fight off infections and virus’, however a pregnant person may endure complications, and the body may not be as good at fighting off germs. There are extra precautions one can take, such as wearing protective masks when working around patients with flu or other contagious conditions. Be sure to wash hands frequently, and get plenty of rest to keep immunity at its best. If vitamins have been prescribed, be certain to continue taking them unless otherwise prescribed; it can help you to avoid catching colds and virus’ that are often very contagious. Staying healthy should be the main goal during pregnancy, and taking extra precautions while working will ensure optimum health. Pregnant women need more sleep and rest. It may be difficult to get all of the rest and sleep needed if you are working your regular full time job. If possible switch to part time until delivery, and allow the body to rest as often as desired. Also request to remain on the same working schedule, you need to have a regular routine during this time is essential in allowing the body to recuperate between work shifts.
Advantages of Working During Pregnancy There are reasons that working during pregnancy is good. The main one being financial, as a steady income can keep finances in perspective. The second main reason is that you may be allowed more time off when the baby is born, most facilities allow a certain amount of time, and how you ration it is up to you. Related: 5 Questions to ask your Interviewer -
Working during your pregnancy can help you to stay more in a routine. After the birth if you return to work, the routine will be more familiar if recently worked. Staying active is important during pregnancy, and working will help keep you active, providing a regular form of exercise daily. Being social is important during pregnancy. Working will provide socialization on a regular basis, allowing others to share in your experience. Regular day working hours during pregnancy means you are active, which can prompt baby to remain awake, possibly allowing for more sleep at night. You could potentially be training baby before they are born.
Working during pregnancy is a decision based on many factors. You and your family should decide if it's an appropriate option to continue working. Your doctor should approve continued work, and during each visit reevaluate if you should continue working. Consider switching to part-time in later months. You will find that extra rest will help, and cutting back on work allows more time for newborn prep time. Whether to work or not is a decision that each person must decide for themselves based on the many factors. Do what is best for you and the future baby, and continue to have a happy and healthy pregnancy. Related: Highly Regarded Registered Nurse Jessica Pougnault, RN, will be Spotlighted in the Worldwide Leaders in Healthcare Please follow us on Facebook, Linkedin, Pinterest, Twitter