Does Nursing make you a hypochondriac?

[Whisper]

I was wondering if Nursing, or studying to be a nurse tends to make people more prone to hypochondria?

A lot of people on my course have 'ulcers' and many other things. 2 of my friends have been exposed to bacterial prneumonia and have become paranoid about checking their temp, every hour at the very least, even if they don't have the slightest sniffle. (and they go to their GP's and occupational health) This is not an extreme example, every cold is now flu, every asthma attack is now acute, every cramp is DVT...etc..etc (i am not being cruel, It is the truth, as scary as it ,may be.

I was just wondering if this was just an isolated example or something to add to the "you know when you live with a nurse..."board.

[P_RN, ADN, RN]

Nurses are "taught" to become observant. That would also apply to being observant of their own bodies. Sometimes a little knowledge is a dangerous thing.

When I read this question, I started surfing for some neat answer, and I came across a site I'd never seen before. I must say, while it didn't apply to this question, I could not stop reading. It was all too real and all too recognisable.

http://www.dianaprice.com/nurse.htm

Any comments?

[deespoohbear]

I don't get too concerned for myself, but I do worry about my kids and husband. If I am not careful, my imagination could run wild. I think I am pretty good though about taking them to the doctor when it is appropiate. We just had a young child in our county die from meningitis so everyone is on edge here. I just try and use common sense. Plus I work at a small facility where I know all the docs, so if I am in doubt I just ask one of them if they think someone needs seen.

[thisnurse]

prn...thanks for the link. i couldnt stop reading it either.

[LilgirlRN, ADN, RN]

powerful stuff in that link, sad.