I'm at the Hospital, now what?

This week we're talking about:

• That car ride could be pretty challenging. If it’s not, you’re probably going to soon
• Drop and roll or park and waddle? We're discussing the benefits of walking together into the hospital or dropping the laboring person at the front door and parking the car.
• If you brought a weekend worth of luggage, leave some of it in the car and come back later. You can strategically pack a bag with snacks, water bottle, clothes for birth, comfort items. Leave carseat and baby stuff in the car
• Triage: most hospitals have one. What does it’ look like? You’ll find that unless you’re pushing, time may feel like it’s standing still. You’re probably in a bigger hurry than the staff and that’s ok. 
• Triage goals: vitals (BP, temp, pulse), listen to baby, vaginal exam. LOTS of questions from medical personnel.
• Walk of shame or that’s ok, you can’t know everything! 
• Hooray, you’re admitted! The golden ticket. 
• Wardrobe change maybe. Wanna wear a hospital gown or just stay in what you have been wearing. 
• Listen to the baby longer.
• IV port started. Fluids through the IV optional.
• More questions.
• Possible change in labor pattern. That’s totally normal.
• Once the intake is complete, turn off lights and make the space comfy. 
• Finding a new rhythm, changing positions. 
• TIme for pain medication? Get that fluid in