Returning to work after knee replacement

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I've been an RN for almost 20 years, but have been a home health RN for about 2 months. I had to get both knee replaced and surg:nurse::nurse:ery was done in Nov. 2005. My surgeon will release me for "light duty" in about 3 weeks, but my employer doesn't want me back until I can pass the fitness test and be back up to full speed.

Has anyone here had knee replacement surgery and returned to home nursing? Any tips would be great.

Thanks,

Cindy

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My husband had bilateral knee replacement about three years ago. It's as close to having it done that I want to get (I know it's tough and you've been through hell). I would be careful about getting back too soon. Remember, you're going to be in a vehicle driving for long periods plus getting in and out of the vehicle all day long. Those knees can swell and hurt for months post op. I know that it took a good 6 months before my husband felt mostly normal and recovery continued for over a year. Before I went back, I would do a trial run and run 8 or 10 errands in one day (grocery, drug store, etc. etc.) and see how you feel at the end of the day. Then consider if you could do that again (and more) 5 days in a row. Take your time and don't jump back into it too soon.

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i am setting up a presurgical protocol for knee replacement surgery, any ideas would be welcome

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