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| Miscarriage Nurse |
Ann Maria Hughes was
appointed to the post of miscarriage nurse four years ago. Prior to
that time she spent 6 years working in the clinic. The increase in
the number of patients referred to the clinic and the recognition
that patients attending the clinic require considerable support, resulted
in the development of this post.
In the 10 years that she has been working in the clinic Ann Maria
has noticed that there is an increasing amount of information available
to patients. This is the result of the extensive research undertaken
in our own unit as well as elsewhere. Although the early days of our
clinic were successful in that the majority of our patients achieved
a full term pregnancy or pregnancies, this success often rested on
the support and reassurance given to patients. Explaining this increased
information to couples forms a major part of Ann Maria's role.
Ann Maria sees all new patients in her own clinic. This clinic is
the first point of contact between the patient and the team of staff
who will provide ongoing support, advice, information and treatment
during future pregnancies. The number of patients booked onto each
clinic is small and this enables Ann Maria time to take a full medical
history from the patient. An explanation of all tests taken in the
clinic is given to the couple. Ann Maria is keen to encourage the
patient's partner to attend as she recognises that miscarriage is
not something that solely affects women.
During this consultation the available treatment options are discussed
with the couple. They are also advised that the test results might
not identify a cause for their recurrent miscarriages. Pre-conceptual
care is also discussed and possible life style changes e.g. smoking
cessation, limited alcohol intake and the importance of folic acid.
Ann Maria feels that one of the main benefits from her nurse led clinic
is that it enables her to develop a relationship with couples. This
means that future appointments will be less stressful. Couples are
given Ann Maria's contact number so that any questions that crop up
after they have left clinic can be answered before their next appointment.
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Outpatients
and Clinics 
