britebeads

Hello all! I have been working towards getting pre-reqs to apply to an accelerated BSN program, but unfortunately was just diagnosed with Ehlers Danlos Syndrome (Hypermobile type). In case you're not familiar, this is a connective tissue disorder that puts me at much greater risk for joint injury even though I seem otherwise young and healthy. So far I've only experienced a knee injury. I will be starting Physical Therapy soon to strengthen muscles surrounding joints, but there is no cure. The specialist I saw advised me against any heavy lifting. I didn't connect the dots when I was at the appointment (a lot to take in), but obviously this would prevent me from being able to lift patients. Is this a dealbreaker for me to pursue a nursing career? Is there any way around it, such as specializing with lighter patients (infants?) or a nursing path that doesn't require heavy lifting? I know there are nurses with disabilities/ injuries that occurred after becoming a nurse, but I'm not sure what would happen to me knowing I'm going into this field with a limitation. Thank you!