Hello, I am soon to be starting an ABSN program in May! I am excited, but I am also curious about any nurses who have pacemakers or nurses who are adults with congenital heart disease (ACHD)? I'm just turned 22 and have a huge cardiac history.. 9 surgeries and counting. I am really inspired by my own experiences as being the patient to become a nurse though but I have questions!
I have a 12 inch keloid scar down my chest from multiple open heart surgeries, and sometimes it gets a lot questions. It is visible in a scrub top, which doesn't bother me. I wear bikinis to the beach, despite the massive amounts of scars. However, I'm more conscientious in professional settings though as to handling the questions. Does anyone have experiences with having a disability and being questioned about it specifically by patients? How do you deal with this? I am usually very friendly and open to people's questions about my scar, but it seems a little different on the job.
Also, how is your energy level for any of those with any heart problems? I'm in okay shape, and have not too many restrictions, but don't expect me to run a marathon.. I find myself more like finding my limits than being told I have them.
I do know I have MRI restrictions, but does anyone else know of any other pacemaker restrictions? Do you wear a medic alert bracelet on shift (or always)?
Thanks for any answers, sorry for so many questions!!
