Published Dec 29, 2007
BiologyNerd
111 Posts
I am 4 foot 10 and weigh roughly 90 pounds. Will that be a problem in nursing?
Altra, BSN, RN
6,255 Posts
"Slight" issue ... I get it. Cute.
Nope, not an issue. :)
TazziRN, RN
6,487 Posts
Only if a 290-pound pt wants to kidnap you!
So there isn't any area I shouldn't be capable of working? Because I am very interested in Geriatrics, L&D and OR.
Good, I thought it may cause come problem as far as patient care is concerned.
Thanks, thats a relief.
Elvish, BSN, DNP, RN, NP
4 Articles; 5,259 Posts
My college roommate (who is also an RN) was/is about 5ft and weighs about 95lbs soaking wet. She's done just fine. Good luck.
nursemike, ASN, RN
1 Article; 2,362 Posts
I'd have to say, yes, it will occassionally be a bit of a problem, and you'll work around it.
The physical therapist who taught me how to do bed-to-chair transfers wasn't much bigger than you. She was a vivid example of the importance of technique vs. brute force.
One of the nurses I work with is considerably smaller than you. She's a good nurse, but needs a stepstool handy to reach things. Not much help with lifts, of course, but takes care of her patients. There's a physical element to nursing, no doubt, but the mental side is what makes nurses indispensible. Also, no matter how big and strong you are, everyone has limitations. Working within those limitations is how you keep from getting hurt.
Buying scrubs--now that could be tough.
NHCNurse
52 Posts
My OB is only 4'10'' and he didn't even need a stool when I delivered my baby...there's a positive for you! :rotfl::rotfl::rotfl:
Seriously though...Your patient's care is based more on how big your heart is not your body. GOOD LUCK!
santhony44, MSN, RN, NP
1,703 Posts
You might find your size to be an inconvenience at times, for example having to stand on a stool to reach something, but it should not be a serious impediment. I've known some very good nurses who just happened to be "vertically challenged." Not needing to use a footstool to reach something on a shelf doesn't make someone a better nurse (or doctor- I had an epidural put in by an anesthesiologist who had to use a footstool!)
SICU Queen
543 Posts
I worked for years with a nurse who is about your height, and she weighed 85 pounds. I am almost 5'9 and... er... uh... MUCH heavier than her... so when it was just her and I, baths and lifting could be challenging, LOL!! We made it work, though... and she was one of the best nurses I've ever worked with.
You'll be fine. :)