Runny nose during shift

Esme12, ASN, BSN, RN · Feb 20, 2013

What a pain. I feel for you....however.

We can't offer medical advice as per the terms of service......there could be many different reasons...I would ask my PCP or see an allergist.

ilovemicrobiology · Feb 20, 2013

I wasn't looking for medical advice, just hoping that maybe someone else went through the same thing- and could pass along any tips or tricks. Not med related.

Orange Tree · Feb 20, 2013

It happens to me too. I've just sort of learned to live with it although it is very inconvenient. I've been on several different medications, to see a ENT specialist, and even had a minor "procedure" to try to help the situation. Nothing has worked so far. Maybe you will have better luck. I hope so!

Aurora77 · Feb 20, 2013

I'm the same way. I can be fine while I'm charting, but go to start an IV or something and my nose gets runny. I think it's just the dry hospital air along with the heat. I just carry Kleenex and use lots of hand sanitizer. For me it's just a bit of a hassle more than anything.

Irish RN · Feb 20, 2013

Does this happen to anyone else, when I am very busy and running around during my shift, my nose gets so runny. It's gross, very unprofessional, and I'm constantly wiping my nose (then washing my hands). However when things slow down, and I'm sitting and charting- it stops! Any tips/suggestions?

It happens to me too....I have chronic sinusitis and attributed it to that but maybe it's the overall hospital environment, not sure.

Only tip/trick I have is to wear a mask as needed. I've found myself throwing on a mask for whatever reason (not a contact room obviously) and then just leaving it on because I can feel my gross runny nose and the mask not only hides it, but prevents the spread of infection. Saves time until I can make it to the bathroom!

GLORIAmunchkin72 · Feb 20, 2013

vasorhinitis comes to mind...very annoying!

ilovemicrobiology · Feb 20, 2013

Most shifts I too would just carry a pocketful of Kleenex and wash my hands like crazy, and not give it a second thought. Then a few nights ago, I had a pt on contact precaution and there goes my nose, couldn't reach into my pocket- so I turn my back and have to wipe my nose with the back of my wrist. Ughhh! It was that, or have the pt see me with snot dripping down my face. Now, I'm mad that I may have rammed a bunch of bacteria up my nose by doing that. Ive got to figure out a more hygenic solution to this. Thanks for letting me know I'm not the only one!!

twinmommy+2, ADN, BSN, MSN · Feb 20, 2013

It happens to me usually when I'm in the middle of an IV stick or doing something with my hands, the patients probably think I'm allergic to them.

But on that same note, are you noticing any latex allergies, or is this happening when you are doing specific things? It might be time to see an allergist as one pp stated.

noyesno, MSN, APRN, NP · Feb 20, 2013

It happens to me, especially when I'm leaning forward during a procedure. I always tell my patients I have allergies because I don't want them to think I'm sick, which is true. I usually follow this up saying I'm allergic to work, which is also true.

Esme12, ASN, BSN, RN · Feb 20, 2013

I wasn't looking for medical advice, just hoping that maybe someone else went through the same thing- and could pass along any tips or tricks. Not med related.

asking about a physical issue that you are having can be medical advice. I really believe that you should see you PCP for you might be exhibiting allergic response to something in the gloves otr in the environment.....getting a diagnosis and treatment might solve your frustration.

Trauma Columnist · Feb 20, 2013

Per our terms of service we dont allow asking or giving medical advice. I guess the bottom line is to see your provider and good luck with getting to the bottom of this.