Is This true....

U.S.A. Arizona

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A couple of my friends were discussing this topic and i thought i should ask you all for your input.... Is it true that one cannot work directly with patients if he/she has a cold sore ? What if a nurse constantly has break outs as a result of stress, would she have to call in sick so as not to put the patients at risk ?

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Specializes in Cardiac.

Not true...

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Specializes in Med/Surg Hospice.

I have never heard of such a thing. I suppose that if one were to kiss their patients or some how have some unprotected contact with a patient, then there might be a problem. Check your policy and procedure manual and possibly the BON (QUIETLY) for further advice. You may also want to have it checked by your PCP, even if it is only stress related there may some treatment. I wish you the best of luck in any case.

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Specializes in Med/Surg Hospice.

the term you is used generically in this post.:smokin::smokin:

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I've gone to work with cold sores (at various times, not continuously! :)) for years, at a variety of facilities, and no one has ever said anything to me about it. I keep my hands away from my face and am extra careful about handwashing at those times.

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Specializes in Nephrology, Cardiology, ER, ICU.

Totally agree with Elkpark.

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Specializes in Med/Surg/Tele/Acute Rehab.

You can work with patients when you have a cold sore, but must remember to refrain from kissing them goodnight when you tuck them in. :bugeyes:

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