Trainee in Difficulty Post Maternity Leave

First of all recognition that priorities have changed, but this is a pendulum swing and it will swing back to the middle ground between work and children.

Also for some individuals pregnancy, time off and sleep deprivation mean that cognition and recall may be affected. Again this will pass, but the trainee may need to adjust study practices and expectations.

Maintain an open and honest narrative. Focused helpful discussions should be had ahead of ARCP, rather than comments left on MSF etc.
Issue most likely to arise is a lack of confidence, imposter feelings are high after maternity leave.

• Pre operative walk through – this should be standard practice!
• Develop a routine of structured feedback after training events [What went well? What would you do differently next time?]
• Encourage trainee to seek feedback rather than shy away from it.
• Ensure consultant body are aware of increased need for support, both communication of this need and the support to be handled sensitively.
• Signpost to Cognitive Behavioural Therapy strategies
• Encourage trainee to seek advice from other women in her position

Consider post-natal depression or reactive depression triggered by return to work.

• Referral to Occupational Health Service / Workplace Counselling maybe appropriate
• Deanery should have a service to tap into