[gail323]

First time post for me, so hope this works right. I am a 51 year old nurse (30 years since graduation) who was just diagnosed with breast cancer - had a bilateral mastectomy 1 week ago. Two of five lymph nodes were positive. Bone scan negative. Will see the oncologist in two weeks. Have many other tests before then. I work in a clinic setting as the on call outpatient nurse, doing lots of shots -allergy, B12, kids shots, etc and then a lot of walk in type work - strep ID, UTI, ? pregnancy.

I was told today that they are setting me up for my 12 weeks of medical leave - boss had talked with OSHA and because of my almost continuous exposure to the infections in the clinic, they recommended relieving me of my duties for the time being. I know I need to recuperate, and I know that chemo is not going to be fun, but what do you guys think about this? I don't want to use up my leave before I'm able to come back to work...

[jemb]

Sorry about your illness. I'll keep you in my thoughts.

Chemo can knock your resistance down to practically nil. We always tell our patients to stay away from places where they are likely to be exposed to infections of any sort. You'd be taking a big risk, plus chemo also saps your energy so you may find that you'll be grateful for the time off.

Use the time to take care of yourself.

[Disablednurse]

My best friend just finished chemotherapy following a left breast mastectomy right after Christmas. They did not want her even going shopping or to the mall for fear of her getting an infection. They said if she did to be sure and wear a mask. You will be very close and right up on these people. I would not take a chance if it was me. You take care of yourself and you will get back to work a lot faster than you would if you caught something in a weakened state and had to get rid of it. That is just MHO. Hugs and prayers for you.

[tory]

I agree with the above posts.

You will be in my thoughts and prayers!

[canoehead]

Some employees at my hospital were allowed to do the jobs that were appropriate for their medical condition. Paperwork/or shorter hours. With the nursing shortage could they find a spot for you elsewhere, so you would have the option of having a bit of money coming in? Of course if you prefer to take the time off go for it. Good luck with your treatment.

[gail323]

As has been said before, in many of the other forums, you guys are the best. Especially appreciate your well wishes. I know it's going to be an interesting summer...

[das]

We have had several nurses and other hospital personnel go through various treatments. Most have continued to work. The nurses (breast Ca) have used Neulasta to allow them to continue to work. One nurse monitored her counts and decreased her work load and schedule accordingly and avoided the obviously infected patients. She was very diligent in monitoring her counts and her work assignments. Good luck and take care of yourself!!!!!

[BadBird]

I think that with your compromised immune system you should not be in any hurry to go back to work. 12 weeks seems like a long time but when you are recovering it isn't. Please take care of yourself and don't be in a hurry to return to work. Perhaps a telephone triage job would be in the future, a job where you aren't exposed to so many germs. Good luck with your treatment, hope you have a speedy recover.

[renerian]

Having worked on hem/onc over 6 years I would say take the time and rest and this will help decrease your exposure to infections. Your going to need your rest.

renerian

[gail323]

Tried to do a few things this weekend - nothing huge, just attend church and run into a store for a couple of things. Sure found out that I'm not back to normal yet - just plain exhausted. So far, the head CT and bone scan returned clear and I'm scheduled for the abd/pelvic CT tomorrow and the echocardiogram on Wednesday. And lots of naps... Thanks for your insight. Gail