How do you manage a health crisis and a job in healthcare?

llg, PhD, RN · May 19, 2015

Talk to your doctor about whether or not it is advisable for you to return just yet. Do whatever he/she recommends. Keep your manager informed of you availability to work -- while simultaneously emphasize your desire to work there and hopes that the situation is resolved quickly. Any decent manager is understanding about a temporary health crisis and shouldn't hold it against you if you have to miss a few extra days -- particularly if you have a note from your physician saying that you are not yet ready to return to work.

Vocationofalifetime · May 20, 2015

Hello, I just read your post, and I can hear the fear in your voice. . .I recently had a health crisis myself, and I understand how scary it can be. . .I would like to gently remind you that your health comes first, no matter what. I would also like to ask you, how would you advise your patient facing similar circumstances?

I was alerted to my health crisis last August after a sudden onset of uterine bleeding (I'm menopausal about two years). I thus, had incentive to see my gyno, and to get my annual PAP and mammogram. I am so glad that I did not ignore the signs, and my actions literally it saved my life! My doc performed an endometrial biopsy and D & C in the office and rushed the samples. I then waited five days for the results. I was completely thrown when my doc called me and told me that I had cervical and endometrial cancer and asked me to come in immediately for treatment.

Up until that day, I've never had cancer, and I have no family history of cancer. I take my health seriously and I always get my annual screenings. I'm also a hard working nurse like you, and I'm in school to complete my BSN. But, like you, I knew that I had to make a decision about how to proceed, and I talked it over with my husband and made the follow up appointment. My oncologist reported that I had stage IA cervical and endometrial cancer, and because I caught it early, all I needed was surgery. Thus, within two weeks of my follow up visit, I had three procedures, including a full hysterectomy. I'm happy to report that I'm completely cancer free!

After surgery, I took some time off (8 weeks) and I was able to return to usual routine by November 1st. I found great support through my family and friends, and through my colleagues at work.

Please do whatever you need to in order to take care of yourself, and find support. And let us know how you are doing. . .We are here to support you no matter what!

Leslie

precious4k1, LPN · Nov 30, 2020

Hellovacationofalifetime although it’s been over 5 years since you graduated from ISU I was encourage when I read your response to a 2015 advise you had given to a incoming student and it really touched me. Just wandering if you’re up to any tutoring or pointers you would be willing to give to a 54year old LPN that has been struggling to obtain her RN for years. I’ve been in the field for 29 years as an LPN half of my experience has been in an acute setting so I have lots of experience. Anyway I would appreciate any help you could give me. Thanks so much