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?
1. Make a phone call to the other hospital to see if this is possible, as you know this is a difficult situation and must be hard for Sarah.
I would also reassure Sarah that although the unit and staff are busy she can always speak to staff about any concerns.
I would be empathetic with Sarah’s situation and acknowledge her anxieties and concerns, so she doesn’t feel a burden or alone.
I would also reassure Sarah that the staff at the hospital are amazing and will be taking good care of her baby.
Q2: Sarah is still on the ward away from her newborn baby. As you walk past you can see that the curtains are around the bed space are closed and you can hear crying. No other staff are around. What would you do?
2. Ask Sarah if you can come into the bed space and offer to support her. Listen to her concerns and put a plan of action in place for how her concerns can be better managed. Offering all the reassurance as mentioned above.
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?
2. 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. 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.
