Q1: Sarah asks you if she can see her baby again. You kindly arranged a video call an hour ago as Baby Theo is still in another hospital.
What would you do?

I would make a phone call to the other hospital to see if this is possible. It is important for Sarah’s well-being and recovery that she feels confident that Theo is ok and being looked after. If seeing him and speaking to the nurses helps to put her mind at rest then it is worth a phone call.

Q2: Sarah is still on the ward away from her newborn baby. As you walk past you can see that the curtains around the bed space are closed and you can hear crying. No other staff are around.
What would you do?

I would certainly pop my head around and ask Sarah if I can come into the bed space and offer to support her. I would listen carefully to her concerns and try to put a plan of action in place for how her concerns can be better managed. Ignoring a mother who has recently given birth and is suffering from low mood could lead to a variety of situations escalating including depression, trying to discharge herself, poor recovery, anger, withdrawal, self-isolation and even violence.

Q3: Sarah calls you over and informs you that she is going to self-discharge and go to see her baby at the local hospital.
What would you do?

I would explain to Sarah that it would not be in her best interests to leave the hospital at the moment due to her current medication, post-operative condition, and health. I would agree to have a chat with her and the ward manager about how you can facilitate more contact with Baby Theo to ensure they are bonding as much as possible.