No patience being a patient

[JasBSN]

I've been an RN for a little over 15 years, and I'll be the first one to tell you I make a horrible patient. Why? Because I know how the system works, it sucks, and I have no patience for it. Like a lot of nurses I've had chronic back problems for years, but never really followed through with further tests. I know I should have, but I figured a few days rest, some ibuprofen, and I'll be good to go again. Well December 8th I hurt my back yet again, and finally gave in. After I was in so much pain I wound up in the ER twice, I finally let my PMD order xrays. Results could have been better. Found out I have some congenital vertebrae defects, so MRI needed. Why on earth does it take a month to get an MRI scheduled??? That whole time I'm off work, and had to wait 3 weeks for my PMD to finally complete my FMLA and short term disability paper work, and I honestly think it only got done because I threatened to call their action line and complain. MRI results were even worse with one unformed disc, 2 herniated discs, and 1 bulging disc. Still unable to work due to pain and mobility issues, and I have to wait 3 more weeks for a consult with a specialist. I only have 1 more week now until I see the specialist, but how long will it take them to get me in to therapy or whatever else is needed to get me back to work? I now completely understand why our patients can be so crabby sometimes. This constant "hurry up and wait" has me about ready to rip my hair out. Day time television sucks, I think I've watched just about everything there is on Netflix, and I've been crocheting like mad. I just want to be able to walk more than 10 feet without severe pain and muscle spasms and am sick and tired of trying to be patient! Thanks for reading my rant, it really does help to get the frustration out, and I know my friends and family are sick of hearing my complain.

[sistrmoon, BSN, RN]

Can definitely empathize. I was recently diagnosed with AS after 17 years of sometimes debilitating pain. I've not been impressed with what I've had to navigate so far as a patient.

[Libby1987]

Yes, being on the other side is enlightening. Wish you well.