handling "disgusting" situations

Nurses Career Support

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I'll be brief. I've tried to shadow nurses, but have not been able to due to patient confidentially laws, etc. I am in the process of applying to nursing schools, but am nervous about some nursing "disgusting" tasks.

There are some unpleasant tasks that i've mastered. In high school, i had a job that involved, in part, cleaning toilets. i got used to it pretty quickly. I participated in cadaver dissection. i was uncomfortable for a day or so, but then had no problems with the tasks.

I mention this to show that i can adapt to "unpleasant" situations.

However, I am really concerned that i will not be able to tolerate situations involving patients and excrement.

This has actually given me a few sleepless nights.

Aside from this issue, nursing would suit me well. I hope that I won't crash and burn as a result of this.

Have any of you had similar concerns, or have you seen people "wash out" as a result of this or similar issues?

Thanks.

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I understand your worry. I am in nursing school and work in an ER. I can handle blood, urine, and even people barfing into an emesis basis right in front of me, but poop is not my favorite thing. You probably won't be able to get through nursing school without ever dealing with it, but there are a lot of different directions you can go in nursing. You might do well working in a clinic or other outpatient setting. Take a look at all the different nursing specialties.

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Specializes in PCU, Home Health.

Ha! Poop is no one's favorite thing! :lol2:

I have seen on here to use Vicks vapor rub under the nose. It does help. It seems like you just kind of get used to it.... As sad as that seems.

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Specializes in Pediatric Pulmonology and Allergy.

That's why I want to go into pediatrics. I am used to kids' poop, either my own, or siblings, or kids I've babysat for. Adult poop, now that would be a new experience.

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Too funny....

My "thing" is spit...that suction sound makes me want to heave. I think everyone has one or two things that aren't their "favorite". I guess it's one's adaptability that makes the difference.:)

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Thats a good idea with the vapor rub, I am gonna give it a try. Poop is something I have a hard time with as well.

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I am with you ChayaN, pediatrics is appealing to me for many reasons including that I love kids, not to mention that I think I can deal with kid's poop better than adult's poop because of experience with my own kids!

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Specializes in PCU, Home Health.

I love kids too= BUT I can't handle the abuse cases. You know- when mama's boyfriend beats on baby and mama won't dump the boyfriend? I can't do it.

Kudos to you who can handle it-:up:

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If you truly want to be a nurse you will find a way to deal with things that you dislike.

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Specializes in Hemodialysis/Oncology/Cardiac Tele/DOU.

Hey, I just read about your concern regarding your ability to handle feces. What I have learned to do over the years, especially as a student, don't focus on the fact that you are cleaning up poop. Actively focus on the task and the well being of the pt.,but if you find that your internal voice begins to focus on "I'm doing the very thing that I have difficulty even thinking about doing!" Refocus on the task and do your best not to become overwhelmed. There are somethings that have to be mind over matter, inaddition to using a tried and true remedy. Vicks Vaporub burns the heck out of my nose, but there are other nasal preps. I believe there is a spearmint ointment that may be used under the nares. Believe it or not, you'd be surprised by what you be accustomed to. I'm not saying its always easy, just give yourself time and see how things go. Good Luck!

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Specializes in Hemodialysis/Oncology/Cardiac Tele/DOU.

OH! I can so relate! In Nursing School I had a friend that could imitate the sound of suctioning a Trach! Needless to say I never had a very good appetite when we were on the same clinical rounds! I have overcome it to a large degree, but it took time. I have always taken great care of my pts., and it's very true that if you want to be a nurse, you'll be doing many things that aren't "pretty or pleasant". That is all a part of Nursing. If your heart has led you into it, you will be amazed at what you are able to do.

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thanks for replies. It seems like such a stupid thing to be hung up about, but i guess it's different for everyone

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