Some day I will go back to work, either out of necessity (these knitting projects aren't gonna pay for themselves!) or sanity (once all the children are in school, there's only so much time I can devote to Facebook). I think I have come up with a perfect job (besides the actual job that I want at American Eagle folding clothes)! A "bathroom break giver" at the Children's Hospital! I'm sure there is a better title for this position, but for now, work with me. "Potty Break-er"??? "Gimme A Break-er"???
Starting at 8:00 am, I would visit rooms that had patients under the age of 3 that had only one parent staying with them overnight. I would then offer said single parent a 10 minute opportunity to use the bathroom however they see fit. I would stay in the room with the child and make sure no bodily injury was inflicted. Let's not get crazy, though...I'm not offering to take your kid to the playroom, feed him or her, teach him or her a foreign language, a musical instrument or anything educational. I'm strictly keeping your kid safe while you pee and brush your teeth. Don't waste time by checking your FB updates, folding sheets or finishing that magazine article you started last night. The clock is ticking and there are other parents that have to go potty. I promise not to ask what you were doing for so long in there or pass any judgment...you do what you gotta do. I'll come back around later in the day to give you another break, but don't make foolish mistakes like chugging a gallon of water (or coffee) that will leave you uncomfortable for quite some time. And yes, I realize that the nurses will ask each time they leave the room if you need anything, but let's be honest...they're offering to bring you a water bottle, snack, fresh towels or linens...not a bathroom escape.
What do you think? I think it has potential.
p.s. I know that if it was urgent the nurses would absolutely help however they could, my point is that I don't think babysitting is in their job description and they shouldn't have to do so.