Have a question you forgot to discuss at the doctor’s office or are too embarrassed to ask? The experts at Samaritan Health Services are here to help.
Q: I recently found out I’m pregnant. I’m considering having a midwife deliver the baby, though I wonder if I would feel safer having my baby in the hospital. What do you think?
A: You can do both! The certified nurse midwives of Samaritan Obstetrics, Gynecology & Midwifery deliver more than 95% of the babies born vaginally to our clinic’s patients, at Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center in Corvallis. We independently manage low-risk labors and collaborate with our clinic’s obstetricians on moderate to high-risk labors.
Our hospital Labor and Delivery unit prides itself on supporting patient preferences. In fact, some common patient requests are routine practice here, such as delayed cord clamping, skin-to-skin contact with baby after delivery, nitrous oxide for pain relief, and the freedom to eat, drink and move about freely during labor. Our midwives will support you in having the experience you’re hoping for, whether that is laboring unmedicated and using hydrotherapy, or having an epidural. If a cesarean section is needed, the midwives assist our obstetricians and remain closely involved in the patient’s care.
This unique model of care, where moderate and high-risk patients are collaboratively managed by both a midwife and an obstetrician, is the best of both worlds. Our clinic’s midwives also provide wellness care, reproductive services and prenatal care. To learn more, call us at 541-768-5300.
— Emily Yeast, certified nurse midwife, Samaritan Obstetrics, Gynecology & Midwifery
Q: How can I help my child understand and cope with the loss of a loved one?
A: Talking to children about dying, death and grief can be challenging and emotional for both parents and children. To help your child navigate these difficult topics, it’s crucial to have an open conversation.
Before starting a discussion, it’s important to tailor the conversation to your child’s level of comprehension. Young children, especially those under the age of 6, may not grasp the concept of death and may expect the person to come back, while older children may have more of an
understanding. Avoid using lingo such as “passed away,” “gone to a better place,” or “sleeping,” which may confuse or scare them. Instead, use clear and plain language such as “died.” This will help
your child understand the importance of the situation.
Remember to be sincere in your responses, but also consider your child’s emotional well-being. When discussing sensitive topics with your child, consider these thoughtful, age-appropriate approaches: encourage them to express their emotions openly, maintain honesty, use storytelling, offer reassurance and seek professional guidance when necessary.
By being supportive you can help your child navigate their grieving process and build resiliency.
— Abigail “Abby” Demchak, licensed clinical social worker, Samaritan Lebanon Health Center - Pediatrics
Brought to you by:
Call Samaritan Health Services Find a Doctor line
at 800-863-5241 to find a provider who is right for you.
Comments