No longer able to do clinical

[FranticmomRN, ADN]

I graduated in May and went straight into the ED. I loved my job but had to leave because I developed acute transverse myelitis that left me with permanent spinal damage. I can no longer lift more than 25 lb without risking paralysing myself. I'm now having difficulty finding a job because I don't have enough experience. My previous boss is trying to find me placement by explaining the circumstances but it has been difficult. I live in a rural area so that adds to the difficulty. I am not trying to skip any steps. I loved ED nursing and miss my old job everyday. I have great references and am currently in a ADN to MSN-education program. Does anybody have any advice on getting my foot in the door? I don't mind putting my time in at the bottom. I just want to work.

[Nurse SMS, MSN, RN]

A good friend of mine was diagnosed with severe rheumatoid arthritis shortly after graduating nursing school and also had a lot of trouble finding work. Ultimately she was able to secure a job with United Healthcare doing remote work from home in case management or something along those lines. You may try that route. Good luck and I am so sorry for your troubles.