Nursing + Size/Strength

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I have read some posts recently that have hinted that nurses need to be/generally are larger in order to lift patients... I am starting to get slightly worried and wanted to post asking here. I am 5'4" and around 130 pounds. I know this isn't necessarily that small at all, but I still feel like I am lacking in the strength department. While I have been strength training recently, particularly in my arms, I am starting to worry that my size and lack of muscles in my arms may prevent me from obtaining a job. Has anyone else faced this based on size? Should I focus more on exercising certain parts of my body in order to be a better candidate?

Specializes in ED, ICU, PSYCH, PP, CEN.

Also, boxes don't shift alot. Pts can. I have almost been hurt once or twice because the pt started to move in a wrong way even after I educated on how we would be lifting and moving. So you must be prepared for this

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Specializes in Med-Surg.

I'm 5'6 and 115. Turning/lifting patients have never been an issue for me because 1. PT has taught me several good body techniques and 2. My unit works great as a team and there is always someone who's more than willing to help! You'll be fine!!

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All good things to know! Thanks, guys! I'm just so excited about nursing that I keep thinking of things that might screw it up for me.... I was freaking out about my lower arm tattoos before I realized that I can wear long sleeves and be fine.

Regardless, I've started strength training my arms and back and am learning through the workouts how to perform healthy lifting.

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Specializes in Emergency/Cath Lab.

my ex is 5 foot nothing and maybe 105 soaking wet. she doesnt seem to have an issue moving people around.

another girl from our versant was 4'11" and not even in triple digits, has been doing just fine.

Like someone said, its knowing how to use what you go!

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Specializes in Infectious Disease, Neuro, Research.

but what i do to help me lift is push ups, weights and i do sit ups, a strong back/core will hlep you tremendously :)

^^ THIS. If you need it and don't have it, things will go bad very quickly. Most people do not do nearly enough core work, and your back is the weak link between the thighs and the shoulders.

Good mechanics are absolutely necessary, but a tad of prevention will save you when things go unexpectedly wrong.

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