Do you think working with a knee walker would be possible?

[beachgirl17]

May seem like a strange question, but I need an honest opinion.

I need foot surgery for a chronic painful condition. I would be non-weight bearing for six weeks or so after the surgery. Not working is not an option, so I have not had it done yet. The pain is terrible though and affecting my quality of life. I am considering having it done, taking off about two weeks after (I have some PTO), and then going back to work with a knee walker. I honestly think I can do my job (med-surg) with a knee walker. If I attach a basket to it, then I can carry everything I need. The only hitch would be assisting patients who need help with ambulation, but a lot of time this task is for physical therapy and/or nursing techs.

Am I crazy for thinking this is possible?

Do you think I would be putting an extra burden on other staff members?

The pain is unbearable, so I am ready to get this done, but taking six weeks off work can't happen! Thank you for your opinions.

[RNKPCE]

Does your state have disability? If I needed foot surgery which I might I am without benefits but I would still get paid by the state, not my full pay but it would help.

[diane227, LPN, RN]

You won't get to make this decision, HR will. Your manager and HR will decide if you can do your job on a wheeled walker and I would guess that the answer is probably going to be no. But that does not mean that they can't put you to doing something else in the meantime until you are cleared by your doc.