Can I be a nurse without a Spleen?

[javachair]

Last weekend I was involved in a bike crash that required an emergency splenectomy. Although I lost a lot of blood and required a blood transfusion I am making a remarkably quick recovery. I guess it helped that I was running 20 miles a week before the accident. All in all I'm a lucky boy, no head injuries, no spinal injuries, no fractures. I also have a new found respect for doctors and nurses, especially those involved with my care at Columbia Presbyterian Hospital.

I was considering going into nursing school next year. Does anyone know of any limitations I might have as a nurse, or if I can still be a nurse? Thanks.

Sam

[Tweety, BSN, RN]

Life goes on without a spleen. Be a nurse. You'll be a good one with your experiences. :)

[Nathalie]

BE A NURSE!!!!! Good Luck!

[talaxandra]

Wow - congrats on your recovery :) No spleen = no problem. Good luck!

[rn/writer, RN]

You do need a brain, a heart, and courage, but I've never yet heard anyone sing a chorus of, "If I Only Had a Spleen."

Go for it.

[javachair]

Thanks for the replies. I didn't think so, but my worry was with the increased chance of infections that could lead to OPSI. Most likely it wouldn't be a good idea for me to work in the infectious disease ward.

Thanks again and I'm looking forward to school next year.

Sam

[DusktilDawn]

Glad to hear you're doing OK Javachair.

A colleague of mine had to have her spleen removed d/t a tumor, she recovered fully, however, she was told that this does make her more susceptible to infections (particularly bacterial) because of the role the spleen plays in the body's immune system. She still is a nurse.

You can certainly still be a nurse, no doubt you'll make a very good nurse.

[Jolie, BSN]

You can't be a nurse without a backbone. Thank Goodness that wasn't injured in the accident!

A speedy recovery to you!

[suzanne4, RN]

Nice to hear that you made a speedy recovery. And good luck with your future schooling.............