Becoming A Nursing Student with medical issues.

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Hello Everyone,

First I would like to say that I am fairly new to this site. I have been reading the different post. But I have not seen a post where it is talked about going into nursing and having medical issues and how it may affect a prospective student entering into a nursing program. So I thought that I might bring this issue up. I am a pre-nursing student and I have many medical issues which I am on medication for and I am stable . I have schizo-effective disorder, diabetes,low thyroid, high cholesterol high blood pressure and acid reflux. I do not think that I will have much of a problem with all the medical issues except the diabetes. Because I need to test by blood sugar frequently and eat every few hours. And I do not know how that would work out if I get accepted into a nursing program. I do not want to let my health problems get in the way of doing well in a nursing program because I really want to become a nurse. Is anyone out there who is in or going for nursing with medical issues and how are you dealing with it. I really would like to hear from you. Thank you

carmen

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This post caught my attention and I know that you are not the only one dealing with these combination of issues. I can't give advice from my own experience, but I knew a nurse who may have had similar medical issues and for her diabetes was ultimately what gave her the most problems. I would say that you are already on the right track by acknowledging the challenges that you may face. For I would say that this was one of her shortcomings. She did not prepare herself for how fast paced and demanding her position was especially while on the floor. I remember seeing her somewhat lethargic and shaky. Unable to act quickly to situations and there were complaints about her penmanship. She was ultimately let go of her position. Nursing is a profession where, (and I am just generalizing because I am not a nurse yet myself) it is easy to put the health and well being of others before your own. My advice would be to take great care of yourself and to always be prepared for the unexpected having what you need readily accessible and stepping away when needed to make sure you are ok. I'm a mother and my family doctor recently had to remind me that if I don't take care of myself and am not selfish enough to make sure I'm well rested and well fed that who will take care of my family. Also make sure you make enough people around you aware of your situation so that they can also be aware of the signs that you may need someone to remind you to take care of yourself. I may be telling you what you already know and have thought about, but just putting my two cents in hope it helps.

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Specializes in Pediatrics, Emergency, Trauma.

OP, we have a nursing and disabilities section in this site; many of us post there and help others who at in the field or contemplating getting into the field.

I went through nursing school with complex-regional pain disorder and PTSD due to being a gun violence and DV survivor; I also have mood disorder trait in my family and have some of the symptoms, hence I was treated and continue to be treated because of that. I was a LPN at the time, and was determined to get my BSN, so I used tools that I need to recover and help me cope.

I see a neurologist who has a specialty in pain management, as well as a therapist and a psychiatrist for medication management; I need these essential people to continue to survive and thrive.

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Specializes in Ambulatory Care-Family Medicine.

I've worked with nurses with type 1 DM and seizure disorders. You just have to know your limits and how to take care of yourself. Make sure you take your meds and eat properly. Nursing is stressful but as long as you are prepared you will be fine.

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Hello,

I thank you for responding to my post. I am starting now to take care of myself.

carmen

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