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PROM can leave you feeling completely helpless. However, you may find empowerment
in the fact that you are your baby's advocate. Be as active as you can
in the decision-making process. If you are uncomfortable making requests or
asking for another opinion, remind yourself that you are doing this for your
baby, and that your baby's health is the most important thing.
- Keep asking questions if you don't understand something or don't
have all the information you need. Wait until you feel that you have all the
information you need before you make a decision. Unless your health care team
tells you that your health or safety are in immediate danger, don't make decisions
quickly or hastily.
- Don't worry that you are being a pest by asking the hospital staff
to monitor you closely.
- Insist on being seen any time you feel that something is not right,
even if you have left the hospital. If your health care practitioner will
not schedule an appointment, go to the emergency room.
- To the extent possible, keep a written log of what you are told, by whom,
and the date and time you received the information. A written log is also
useful for keeping track of your medications, fluid intake, bathroom visits,
and pad changes (if applicable), as well as the names of the members of your
health care team.
- Join the PROM list for support as you
advocate for your baby.
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Article by Kay Squires, january 2005, updated 2007
Special thanks to the members of the PROM list
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