Question 1) I would choose option one also. Whilst it is important for Sarah to try and rest so she can recuperate, she isn’t likely to be able to focus on anything else other than her baby at this moment in time. Being so far away must feel awful, she must feel so helpless and upset, As a parent you want to be able to protect and be there for your children and she will be feeling the same. Although the ward will get busy, and as nurses we unfortunately will not have time to solely dedicate to one patient, we want to do everything we can to put her at ease as much as is possible in this situation. Validating how she feels is crucial. If she feels listened to and supported then will possibly understand how busy everything is and that we will do our very best for her.
Question 2) I would choose option two. Before intruding we would need to gain consent from Sarah to open the curtains and come in, as we would need to respect her privacy and dignity at all times. If she was happy to speak then I would go in to comfort her and see how I could help.
Question 3) I would choose option two. If Sarah discharged herself it would not be beneficial to her at this time, however I could understand her reasons for wanting to do so, so that she could be with her baby. I would explain the situation and talk to her, let her tell me how she is feeling and explain things to her gently so as to reassure her that we are doing all we can to help and have hers and her babys best interests at heart.
