[navynurse29]

Hi everyone, needed some advice. I have Factor V Leiden disorder which I inherited from my mother (thanks Mom ). I am a heterozygote for this particular disorder. Yesterday, I developed my second clot in a year due to this problem. I don't smoke, take bcps, or have any other risk factors other than the Factor V Leiden disorder. I start nursing school this fall in an ADN program which I am very excited about because I have been planning on this for years ever since I got out of the Navy. My question is.... should I even pursue this with my medical hx? BTW, I developed this second clot on 10mg coumadin QD. I want to work hard as a nurse and really want to work in OB or ER as I have experience in these areas but I want to pull my weight, not just on a part -time basis. Any advice would be appreciated, thanks!

[plumrn]

What does your Dr say?
I'm not familiar with Factor V Leiden disorder, but if I were you, and I had 2 clots in one year, (I suppose you mean DVT?), I would seriously reconsider nursing school. There is so much time spent ON your feet, and so much time spent sitting (studying, lectures, etc.), that you would be at risk.

On the other hand, if your Dr feels it is doable, maybe you could speak with the school to see if you could make some slight allowances, such as more frequent stretch breaks or have your own chair or ottoman that would prevent hanging your legs down and bent for long periods; things like that.

Whatever you do, always look out for yourself, because no one else will. Good luck in whatever you choose.

[memphispanda]

My DH has a clotting disorder (they haven't been able to determine why, he just clots). Have you been having your PT and INR checked? If they aren't at a therapeutic level, then the amount of coumadin you take doesn't matter. You may want to ask your doc about Plavix also. My DH is on coumadin and plavix and has had no clots in almost 5 years.

I wouldn't let a little clotting problem stop me from going to nursing school! People have made it through with many things worse than that!

[BadBird]

You will have this clotting disorder wheter you are a nurse or not so why not pursue your dream of becoming a nurse? Good luck.

[navynurse29]

Hi guys, thanks for the replies. Yes, I do get my PT and INR checked regularly but for some reason maybe due to the Factor V Leiden, it is always irregular. I haven't really talked to my doctor about nursing school that much. He is pretty laid back and says that I can live a fairly normal life. I just thought I would get your opinions because YOU guys are living the "fairly normal life" I would like to lead Thanks again.

[imenid37]

i don't have much to add except that i wish you luck and the best of health. i hope you are able to pursue your dream!