Any part of nursing that does not have to use phone

DeLana_RN, BSN, RN · Sep 17, 2009

Former dialysis nurse here... yes, you do have to use the phone in this specialty, quite a bit if you're in a clinic. But I remember when I worked med/surg years ago, I was rarely on the phone myself; I had to so many patients that I didn't have time to call MDs and the charge nurse handled almost all calls. You might find a similar unit today (where charge nurses handle most or all phone calls) - but I certainly don't recommend 8 pts per nurse!

Good luck to you.

DeLana

twinmommy+2, ADN, BSN, MSN · Sep 17, 2009

I agree with pp, our charge was the one handling the phones along with the secretary. Would you be able to get something that could attach to a phone? A facility would have to supply equipment as reasonably nessessary under the Disabilities Act wouldn't they?

Stearnsy · Sep 18, 2009

I agree with pp, our charge was the one handling the phones along with the secretary. Would you be able to get something that could attach to a phone? A facility would have to supply equipment as reasonably nessessary under the Disabilities Act wouldn't they?

x2. I think that accommodations could/should be made.

ChristyRN2009 · Sep 18, 2009

I don't know from personal experience but I would think that ER nursing would spend comparitively less time on the phone since the doctor is right there generally and the family usually is too. But I can't think of any nursing where the phone is completely eliminated so I will third what others have said about your facility accomodating you with the phone issue.

liebling5, MSN, RN · Sep 18, 2009

You might also want to check out the Nurses with Disabilities forum. There are other hearing-impaired nurses, so you're in good company. Some facilities are already computer-based, and docs write their own orders in the computer (VA Medical Center, for one), so you don't have to do much talking on the phone. We always read back orders and critical labs anyway, so you would be covered if you missed something. :twocents:

esthomprn · Sep 18, 2009

We had a nurse like that and they gave her a special type of phone. All business must accommidate for people with disabilities. Its illegal if they don't.

But to answer your question, usually the ICU you don't have to use the phone cause the doctor is on the floor. I worked the PICU and we had a doctor on the floor 24/7. Only time we used the phone is to call the other floor to let them know we were on our way.

morte, LPN, LVN · Sep 18, 2009

most newer phones have volume control...and there is such a thing as a handset with built in volume control.....not sure is they are still made d/t the newer phone coming with built.......good luck

aminv · Sep 18, 2009

Thank you so much guys. you are all wonderful for helping me.

aminv · Sep 18, 2009

hi guys how do i go on nursing with disability forum?