Physical limitation and finding a job as a new grad

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Specializes in critical care.

I'm in my first semester of a BSN program with 3 semesters to go. They're traditional semesters, so really, I still have a year and a half to go. My ultimate goal is PNP. I'll have to do an online program after I put in my first year or two as an RN, and then I'll also have to work while I'm in grad school because frankly, we need the money.

But here's my problem.

I've just been dx with anterolisthesis (L4 over L5, and L5 over S1). The radiology report grades it somewhere between a grade 1 and 2. I've only spoken with my chiropractor so far (neuro/spinal surgeon appointment hopefully will be in the very near future), but he has concerns over the idea of bedside nursing for me. Frankly, so do I. I just read what happens in a spinal fusion surgery and I'm terrified. I'd like to put that off as along as possible, if I may.

So...... now what? I know the new grad is destined for med/surg, but for my own health, I need something low impact on my back. I live in a fairly rural area, so opportunities are already limited by that. Can any of you help me think outside the box here? What kind of jobs might be attainable as a new grad BSN that is outside the hospital and LTC? Surely there must be options for those who have limitations physically, right? I'd love it even more if I could break into something pediatrics-related, especially since that's where I'd like to "end up" as an NP.

Anyone out there with words of help or encouragement? I could really use some right now.

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Try clinics or school nursing. These can be less harsh on your body but a job where you can still utilize the RN license and skills you worked so hard for. A classmate of mine went in to work at a women's clinic and really enjoys it! Best of luck! Nursing has many avenues its just finding the one that fits!

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Specializes in Complex pedi to LTC/SA & now a manager.

Moved to nurses with disabilities forum to elicit further response. There are some hopeful stories posted in this forum. Good luck.

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Specializes in critical care.

Thank you for the move to the other forum. I didn't realize this forum was here until I hit google looking for related info.

RN2012Newbie, thank you for your encouragement. I've been trying to track down the department head to have a good conversation about options after graduation. I figure she probably has the best grasp on what's available locally for a new grad than anything. She quite busy, though, and I have yet to get that meeting. I have time, though.

It's been a long couple of weeks, but now that I'm calmer and can think about things more clearly, I know I'm a fighter and I'll figure this out. I'm also a planner (obsessively so) and I've been reading up all that I can. Based on my images, I'm kind of at an in between place where I don't know if they'll recommend surgery or not. So, I just wait. *sigh*

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