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 explain to Sarah that I will liaise with the nursing team to determine how soon she will be strong enough post surgery to leave and make the journey to visit her baby. I would encourage her to also discuss this herself with the nurse in charge and remind her of the importance of following her post-operative care guidance, as she needs to be recovered well enough before undertaking any strenuous activity – eg climbing stairs. I’d explain that the doctor would be able to give further advice about this in the morning during their ward round.
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?
Without opening the curtains, I would explain who I was and ask if I could come round, as I just wanted to check that she was alright.
If she gave consent, I would come in and sit near the bed, explain that I can see she’s really upset and ask “Is there anything else you need right now, or can I do anything else to help?” (I’d probably offer her a cup of tea.)
If it seemed appropriate and her body language was open, I may give her a gentle rub on her shoulder and try to be empathetic to whatever she said. I’d acknowledge how difficult it must be for her at this time and be willing to listen to her responses.
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.
I’d calmly, but firmly explain that that really wouldn’t be a good idea, as the doctors haven’t said she is medically fit for discharge yet and she may also need to await any prescribed medications. I’d explain that while I could not stop her from leaving, that it really wouldn’t be helpful for her and she may find herself getting more unwell, possibly risking an infection, and having to return and be separate from her baby for longer. I’d remind her that her partner would be able to be with Theo soon and that I’m sure he’d be in touch shortly to give an update.
