Nurse Marge in Charge

Dear Nurse Marge,

I’ve just discovered I’m pregnant.  Now, I’ve been a nurse for a while, and I’ve seen how the other nurses treat pregnant colleagues — it’s all nice up front, but  nasty nasty behind the back.  I don’t want that — so I’ve kept it quiet.  But I won’t be able to keep it quiet for long.  What’s the best way to stop my co workers from treating me any differently than they have up until now?
Signed,

Stressed in Spokane

Dear Stressed,

To really believe that your fellow nurses will treat you differently if you’re pregnant means you must believe they’re not talking behind your back now.  Come on.  You know these people.

Leopards don’t change their spots, but they will generally shell out for a nice romper, some onsies, or even a Diaper Genie if you play your cards right.  Assume that they’re going to be annoyed and irritable — that’s their nature, and you’ll only stress yourself out trying to change it.  Meanwhile, enjoy the daylights out of being pregnant.

Can’t go in the isolation room?  Don’t go in — JOYOUSLY!

Too far along to turn the 500 pound patient who insists on groping every woman within reach?  Shucks! Make sure to cheer supportively from the sidelines.

Have to vomit suddenly, despite the fact Dr. Annoying Face is right there?  Make sure you get a picture afterward for the baby book!

Some times in your life are special, and you shouldn’t let the actions of the people around you dictate your enjoyment of them.  Don’t worry about cranky faces and nasty attitudes — as soon as you’re not pregnant, they’ll have something else to be cranky and nasty about.  That’s the nature of the beast.  You go have fun.  And maybe, just maybe, you’ll serve as an example that others will emulate.

By the time you’re back from maternity leave, they’ll be so happy to see you (and share the workload!) that they’ll even smile at all your new Mommy stories.

For a while.

Good Luck!

Nurse Marge