Published Aug 1, 2013
hanamiku
2 Posts
I'm thinking about becoming an lvn but I'm 4'6 and 120 lb. The most weight I can lift is 30 lb. Do any of you think that I can still become a nurse?
StephAltman
11 Posts
I'm 4'11", 115. You can do it. :). I even worked as an aid for about 6 months. People are always willing to help if you need it.
RN&mom
123 Posts
The more you do it the more you will be able to do. I am 5'2" and about 115 lbs but I can lift any pt any of the others can. I was a CNA for several years before becoming a nurse, at first it might be tough for you but you will build strength! So yes, do it:)
thanks for the encouragement. I'm definitely gonna go for it : )
sjalv
897 Posts
As others have said, you will build up strength. But just to reassure you, I'm a male and I would never hesitate to help a coworker in transporting/lifting a patient. Don't be afraid to ask for help!
katiescow
67 Posts
I work in peds & even with the kids I sometimes have to be the one standing on the step stools to take vitals...they don't mind though as long as you have a good sense of humor about it and aren't afraid to ask for help when you need it you'll be fine
pookyp, LPN
1,074 Posts
Ppl can't believe how strong I am. Been a CNA for 11 years and at 5'0" 95 lbs I lift pt's on my own and put then in a wheel chair. You gain strength over time. Haven't lifted a pt in a couple years but now in LPN school, I do a little and ppl say whoa! I didn't expect that outta you! Lol
SoldierNurse22, BSN, RN
4 Articles; 2,058 Posts
I'm 5'1", 100lb. I was a CNA and EMT-B before becoming an RN and a Soldier. You can do it.
Philly_LPN_Girl, LPN
718 Posts
I am 5'2 and 150lbs and been an aide since 2007 and Ive always been fine with picking pt's up, rolling them over, etc I am very strong. I graduate from nursing school in 2 weeks. If you ever need any help, you could get others to help you, you will be fine.
anothergrumpyoldRN
92 Posts
yup...
sounds like you need to lift some weights, no need to be a weakling just cuz you are a girl!
My granddaughter (9) can lift 20 lbs for pete sake. LOL
Tinker88
258 Posts
Of course! Do a little weight lifting. I'm 5.3 and 105 lbs and I can carry my husband (6.2 & 180lbs) if I need to! LOL
LadyFree28, BSN, LPN, RN
8,429 Posts
OP, you will learn how to carry people up to 2-3 (sometimes 4!-in my experience) times your weight...it's called proper body mechanics...just as good as weight lifting.