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We are now 18 months into a global crisis that has revealed some of the less admirable traits of humanity. In the U.S., it’s become common for individuals to prioritize their personal liberties over the collective safety of our communities. I thought we had reached the peak of absurdity, but then I saw anti-vaccination advocates, facing severe illness, begging others to get vaccinated. How many times must this cycle repeat before it sinks in? Apparently, quite a few more.
Recently, a labor and delivery unit in upstate New York (Lowville) had to suspend its services. Why? Not due to power outages or equipment failures, but because they couldn’t staff the unit after a significant number of nurses resigned rather than get vaccinated. Seriously, what is happening here? This situation isn’t just a backlash against President Biden’s vaccine mandate; private businesses have been implementing vaccine requirements for weeks. This is not new.
What’s particularly alarming is that we’re talking about hospital staff—specifically, nurses responsible for the care of new parents and vulnerable newborns who lack fully developed immune systems. This situation is a lose-lose: nurses are now unemployed, the hospital is understaffed, and expectant parents are left scrambling for alternatives.
Lewis County, where this incident occurred, is known for its conservative leanings, which correlates with lower vaccination rates and higher COVID-19 infection rates compared to the rest of New York. But here’s where I struggle to comprehend: these are nurses, medically trained professionals who understand the science behind vaccines far better than the average person. How is it that they can care for pregnant individuals and their newborns while neglecting to protect themselves and their patients from a virus that has wreaked havoc on our world?
While I acknowledge that masks, PPE, and sanitizing practices are crucial, why wouldn’t they opt for a free vaccine that has been extensively researched? We’ve vaccinated against chicken pox, measles, and polio—why is COVID any different? When did personal freedom overshadow our duty to protect one another? This is what community is about; it’s about caring for each other.
Choosing not to protect oneself is one thing, but endangering others is entirely different. Medical professionals should absolutely be held to higher standards. Even those who don’t work directly with COVID-19 patients cannot be blind to the trauma this virus has caused. It’s baffling that someone who has witnessed the effects of this pandemic would consciously choose not to safeguard themselves and those they care for.
As difficult as it may be, if I were expecting a baby and learned that my labor nurse was unvaccinated, I would want no part of them in my delivery room. So while many are shaken by the disruption in their birth plans, perhaps this is a blessing in disguise. Do we really want nurses who are willing to jeopardize their health and that of others overseeing the care of our newborns?
Some may argue they are following all other safety protocols, but after the loss of over 500,000 lives to COVID-19 before the vaccine was available, it’s clear that vaccination saves lives. Ignoring this reality may be your right, but it shouldn’t impact the lives of the vulnerable.
Here’s a suggestion: if you’re unconcerned about catching COVID-19, perhaps you should consider switching to a department that deals directly with COVID patients. If you truly believe it’s no worse than the flu, step into the eye of the storm. Meanwhile, to expectant parents whose plans have changed, focus on what you can control. Wear your mask and discuss your concerns with your healthcare provider. Your little one will soon be in your arms, and despite the chaos, their arrival is a moment to celebrate.
For more insights on pregnancy and home insemination, check out this excellent resource at Healthline, and consider visiting Home Insemination Kit for further guidance.
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Summary:
With many nurses resigning instead of getting vaccinated against COVID-19, the safety of newborns and expectant parents is at risk. Medical professionals have a duty to protect themselves and their patients, and the choice to forego vaccination raises serious ethical concerns. As hospitals struggle to maintain staff levels, expectant parents must navigate this troubling landscape while focusing on their own health and safety.
Keyphrase: Unvaccinated nurses in maternity care
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