But one Erlanger East labor and delivery nurse, who asked not to be named because she does not have authorization to speak on the matter, said for her and her co-workers, the policy “goes against everything” she has been taught about patients’ right to refuse treatment.
“You’re darned if you do, darned if you don’t,” she said. “If we don’t, then we could supposedly get sued. If we go through with it, then I’m afraid someone could say it’s battery because we’re providing care against their wishes. That’s my biggest fear.”
She said she would not go against parents’ wishes, even if a security guard was involved.
Local midwife Amy Miller Anderson, who has worked in labor and delivery for more than 20 years including her time as a nurse, said the policy has “deeply troubling” implications.
She does not discourage the use of erythromycin ointment, and always spells out what the law requires.
“What I don’t agree with is the use of force. … It’s entirely inappropriate,” said Anderson.
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