Physical requirements of NP jobs

[RNinWI]

I am 27, have been a nurse for four years, and have chronic low back pain due to lumbar DDD and a failed back surgery.

I have been advised to look into career paths that take me out of direct patient care due to my risk for reinjury and the restrictions I have against lifting over 50lbs, repetitive bending, pushing, pulling, etc.

I don't really want to spend the rest of my nursing career behind a desk so am considering going back to school. My question is regarding what typical physical requirements are for nurse practitioners so I know whether it is even an option for me to consider this track. What does your employer require and what is your experience in your day to day work?

Thank you so much for your help!

[TiBette]

I work in a clinic setting and it is not physically demanding.

[nursetim, NP]

I became an ANP for this very reason, so go for it and have fun.

[Neteenek]

I'm looking into going into nursing school but I had a car accident a few years ago which has left me with limited use of my left hand. I have little to no sensation in my thumb, pointer and middle finger. I'm wondering if this is something that is going to cause trouble for me in nursing

[AbeFrohman, BSN, RN]

Nope, not as long as you do that digital rectal examination with the other hand

[BCgradnurse, MSN, RN, NP]

I don't think job is that physically demanding. I'm on my feet all day, but there's no heavy lifting/moving. Get some good shoes and you'll be fine.

[Dixiecup]

No way does it compare to hospital or LTC nursing! You are running around a lot but do get to sit down in the room with the pt for at least part of the time and give your back a break.

I have a herniated disc and so far I've been able to manage it without much problem.