[caffreak]

I'm petite (5"0) and small, and I hope to become a psych nurse someday. Do you think my size will be a problem?

[caffreak]

Sorry for posting I just saw the other threads on this topic

[bollweevil]

No. Go for it.

[The_Wonderkid]

No in a word! I do see your concerns however I must say that being petite gives you the advantage in that you don't look threatening. I found in the past that its the big guys that get alot of hassle overall because they are big guys whereas the smaller women get alot less hassle.

Saying that why should it be a problem? I mean some of the smallest women I know are amazing at not only their jobs but also in a restraint situation.

[RNalby]

I'm 4-11 and 100lbs and have been in psych for 5 years. It has only been a problem when we've had to lift big patients (in geri-psych) and I have no upper arm strength. Like the other poster mentioned sometimes it can help out in a restraint situation. With large males holding the patient down I was prolly one of the few nurses that could get between pt and staff to medicate the pt IM or help secure a restraint strap.

[DontDoThat]

No, you just have to be meaner, like a Chihuahua! lol

[RN2begin]

Originally Posted by caffreak

I'm petite (5"0) and small, and I hope to become a psych nurse someday. Do you think my size will be a problem?

I am 5'0 too and also a psych nurse on a very high acuity admission unit. Initially I was a bit worried too...but it's all in how you present yourself...actually people are often surprised when I tell them how tall I am, even though they are looking right at me...I was told that "I carry myself much taller." I guess it's kind of like when a cat puffs up to look more intimidating...I am always the first person out from behind the desk when the "stuff" starts to hit the fan...I always speak matter of factly, always maintain eye contact and never let them see me shake!

[aloevera]

Not at all !!!!!! What matters is how to treat the pts, your demeanor, and your attitude !!!!

Don't worry, if you have a problem, call a code, and the big men will come !!!!! You generally will have male staff on your unit anyway....

[TemperTantrum]

I am an ex roller derby player, and one of the best girls on the team was 4'9", less than 100 lbs (I dont hazard a guess at exactly how much, but she was teeny) and she was a cop.

I suggest you take a self defense course, but that height can be a big benefit.

You may be small, but you can still bite ankles!

[jhamrn]

I have worked with only men on a psych unit before and I find that women and men together maintain a safe environment better. Sometimes pt's respond better to someone that is less intimidating.