one of -those- questions

[scrabblern, RN]

I am a critical care RN with a fear of needles. I used to shake and sweat when giving a subQ... and now I'm at the point where I do OK starting an IV and doing art gasses. I still kind of get uncomfortable but it's nowhere near how it used to be.

I've considered NA programs but I'm deterred by the fear that I'll have to do epidurals. Putting a fat needle into someone's back doesn't sit well with me and I'm not sure that it ever will. Do all schools require of their SRNAs to practice epidurals? If one is an NA at a hospital is it given that they'll have the type of patients that will require epidurals? How does one minimize exposure to that and still be an NA? Should I be even considering this career if I can't handle that fat needle in the back?

Thanks.

[Flare, ASN, BSN]

if you've gotten through your other needle-phobias, then what makes you think you won't be able to crack this one, too?

[scrabblern, RN]

every time i witness it i get nauseous. i am not sure how long it would take me to get over it. i could see my potential instructors not being happy with that.

[My_brain_hurts]

I personally SUCK at starting IVs, because most everybody in my ICU has or very soon requires a central line. I am also freaking out at the thought of epidurals and being the one to PUT IN the central lines!!!!! However, I think I'm going to get some awesome training and that makes me feel less freaked out. I see our residents putting in lines for the first time and sometimes they get it and sometimes they don't, and sometimes the fellow has a hard time getting it in too so you know what? I'm not going to worry about it. . . very much. . . at least not now. . . perhaps when classes start I'll feel differently

[cessnadriver]

Yes ALL schools require a certain number of sub arachnoid or spinal blocks. epidural blocks, central venous catheters, arterial catheters not to mention peripheral nerve blocks. You will be sticking needles into someone several times a day.

[cessnadriver]

every time i witness it i get nauseous. i am not sure how long it would take me to get over it. i could see my potential instructors not being happy with that.

No we would not be happy with that reaction.

[RedCell]

You will be sticking needles into someone several times a day.

After reading the above comment, it should be noted and remembered by all, "There is no body cavity that cannot be reached with a 14 gauge needle and a good strong arm" (Old man Shem, 1978). And, thanks to ultrasound and multipurpose lubricant...we can now be sure of where that needle is!

Seriously, if needles make you squeamish, I don't think you will enjoy anesthesia.

[sewnew]

And, thanks to ultrasound and multipurpose lubricant...we can now be sure of where that needle is!

Hey, don't forget fluoro...:chuckle

[scrabblern, RN]

thank you everyone for your replies!

[jls189]

I personally love to do any kind of procedure that I am legally allowed to @ this point. Can't wait to go to NA school to do more. My suggestion to you is to try to change your way of thinking on this issue. Jump @ the chance to do any procedure you. Look @ it as an adventure.....a challenge, if you will. Work on it now before starting NA school. You'll definately be doing TLC's, swans and epidurals in school. Convince yourself that you'll done fine, and you will. A little positive thinking and self-encouragement will go a long way.

[alterego33]

I used to work with a CRNA who couldn't stand to suction patients and who would gag and heave when she did it. But, she worked for years and was a great anesthetist. But, needles may be another matter. If I was a patient and the CRNA coming to my back or armpit with a needle attached to a shaking hand, I would probably cancel my surgery. Get hypnotized and see if that helps.