There is another thread that talks about retired nurses coming back to work. This got me thinking.....
Do any of you have "wear and tear" issues because you have been a bedside nurse for 5,10,15,20, 30, etc. years??
If you do, what type of issues do you have and how do you overcome them?
otessa
I was a bedside nurse for 13 years (plus 4 more as a CNA) so a total of 17 years of bedside care prior to taking a non-direct care position. I have varicose veins, bunions(always had great shoes for work-go figure) that would have needed surgery if I would have continued 12 hour+ shifts. Going to get the varicose veins fixed this Spring-just in time for Summer!!
I've had 4 years as an RN, 2 as a CNA. I have two herniated discs in my lower back with an annular tear in one of them. I have been on workcover and now back on regular duties. The specialist I saw has told me that the tear in my disc should have resulted in a permanent disability. I can no longer run, jump down from heights and climbing can be difficult for me. I get depressed about it sometimes and even resentful when the workload is high but staffing low. The specialist I saw when on workcover was surprised that I'm even bend backwards because he seems to think my injury could leard to a disability.
Opening genesis instrument tins has caused a ganglion in my left hand which aches a lot. I have recently been given a special device for opening tins which seems to have stopped the flareups.
At this point I'm not ready to leave my area but I know there are other options available. We have a pre anaesthetic clinic in my department staffed by nurses many of who have found themselves with injuries. Very low manual handling involved.
I don't have anything diagnosed yet, but sometimes my back hurts like all get out. I'm concerned for the future, as I've got a lot of years left before I can retire. I am already continuing my education so that when the time comes I can move into a less physically demanding position.
I am already continuing my education so that when the time comes I can move into a less physically demanding position.
Scrubby
1,313 Posts
I've had 4 years as an RN, 2 as a CNA. I have two herniated discs in my lower back with an annular tear in one of them. I have been on workcover and now back on regular duties. The specialist I saw has told me that the tear in my disc should have resulted in a permanent disability. I can no longer run, jump down from heights and climbing can be difficult for me. I get depressed about it sometimes and even resentful when the workload is high but staffing low. The specialist I saw when on workcover was surprised that I'm even bend backwards because he seems to think my injury could leard to a disability.
Opening genesis instrument tins has caused a ganglion in my left hand which aches a lot. I have recently been given a special device for opening tins which seems to have stopped the flareups.
At this point I'm not ready to leave my area but I know there are other options available. We have a pre anaesthetic clinic in my department staffed by nurses many of who have found themselves with injuries. Very low manual handling involved.