Twenty two years ago when I refused to allow my baby to be bathed, word of
mouth spread the news, and I had people coming in from all over the
hopital, Cafeteria workers, housekeeping, etc, to "see the baby with the
beautiful skin".  (He really did have beautiful skin, as do all my
babies..not red and scaly from scrubbing).  We were also the first to have
24 hour rooming in, which caused the nursery nurse to say "What will you do
when he stops breathing and dies?"  There was no way I would tell her I had
been an NICU nurse before kids.  I just assured her I would call if I
needed help!
Nineteen years ago I had to sign a "blood refusal form" to avoid eyes
drops.  They crossed out blood and wrote eye drops.  Even with a
pediatrician husband we had to sign out AMA to take her home at 6 hours!
My reputation got so wild over these things that when I had Alex 6 years
ago, the rumours were that I had a 30 page care plan for my baby!!!  When I
came in with half a page they were so relieved no one argued! (only 3
item-no bath, no seperation, no artificial nipples)
I do think I "got away" with some things because of my husband.  They don't
like it but don't argue too much.  I have seen young single moms, and moms
of different ethnic back grounds given a much harder time.
It is a shame we just can't do what is natural!
Patty Spanjer, IBCLC
Dalton, GA, USA

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