Pregnacy Bummer
So, I've been attempting to volunteer at a local hospital for several months now.  I began the process before we even got pregnant.  They finally have an opening, but they require you to get a tuberculosis test done before starting there.  The test they do is called a PPD - basically it injects proteins from a dead TB virus into your arm, and if you have a reaction, it means you have TB in your system or have had an immunization against it.  I assume at that point you would be disqualified from working in the hospital without further testing (a chest x-ray). 
I am not very comfortable with the testing procedure, so I asked them if I could do an alternate test called a QuantiFeron that does not include injecting me with this stuff.  It's listed on the CDC website, and in my opinion is a much better option since I'm pregnant.
The nurse I spoke to said that "oh, it's not TB that gets injected, it's protein" - yeah, proteins from TB.  And then said that they would not accept any other test.  :(   I might call tomorrow and ask to speak with whomever it is who approves applications.  This is so dumb!
I really want to do this volunteering, but I can't do it at the expense of a healthy pregnancy.  For the record, I don't think it'd hurt really, but the test has  not been researched on pregnant women (or animals) for safety.  Many sources say that a pregnant woman should not take the test unless necessary.



3 comments:
Hi, It probably wouldn't hurt, but I wouldn't take a chance either...I'll butt out now!
PS The knitted caps are adorable! Good job.
that's a bummer, but I don't blame you! Sorry!
Time to start Singing or telling stories to baby. Read a good math book to baby. DomerBaby can here you now.
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