I did a search first, but I found no thread in reference to being a successful nurse while on dialysis.:) Only nurses working in dialysis!:heartbeat
I was recently diagnosed with nephrotic syndrome, and while I am still letting it all sink in, this is a big worry of mine (other than what shape my kidneys are in- don't know exactly yet). After years of wanting to go into nursing, I finally began pre-nursing, then get hit with this bombshell.
I know what answers I don't want to see, but I will have to be brave and face up to it.
I'd hire you. Someone who put herself through college while on hemodialysis 3x/week demonstrates "True Grit," if you will. Good for you, hang in there and you will do well!
I did a search first, but I found no thread in reference to being a successful nurse while on dialysis.:) Only nurses working in dialysis!:heartbeat
I was recently diagnosed with nephrotic syndrome, and while I am still letting it all sink in, this is a big worry of mine (other than what shape my kidneys are in- don't know exactly yet). After years of wanting to go into nursing, I finally began pre-nursing, then get hit with this bombshell.
I know what answers I don't want to see, but I will have to be brave and face up to it.
I worked in dialysis for over 5 years. Maybe your situation not as bad as you fear. Nephrotic syndrome is only a manifestation that something is going on with your kidneys; however, it's not necessarily a chronic kidney disease that always leads to ESRD (end stage renal failure requiring dialysis or transplant). My brother developed nephrotic syndrome in his early 30's, and although he was diagnosed with a chronic disease (a type of glomerulonephritis), in his case it might have taken decades to lead to ESRD - if ever. He recovered from the acute phase and remained asymptomatic until his sudden death a decade later (which had nothing to do with kidney disease). After his kidney disease diagnosis, he had continued to work full-time and had no activity or diet restrictions.
So please try not to worry too much (I know, it's hard not to). Let us know what the nephrologist has to say.
Best wishes,
DeLana
P.S. I had several dialysis patients who continued to work full-time; most do not, but keep in mind that the majority are elderly with many comorbidities (e.g., diabetes). And of course, a transplant offers hope for a near normal life for ESRD patients.
Specializes in Case mgmt., rehab, (CRRN), LTC & psych.
So working 12hr shifts is out? Even if dialysis is on my days off? 0r is the schedule not up to me?
Keep in mind that dialysis is very, very exhausting to a person's body. 12-hour shifts require a great deal of stamina and energy. I am not saying that 12-hour shifts are impossible for someone on dialysis. However, it would seem that 8-hour shifts would be less physically draining.
You absolutely do not have to give up your dream. My clinical instructor got through her BSN and MSN while on dialysis. She has worked on a MED-SURG floor ( a floor that most "healthy" pple can't handle) for years . When you're ready (physically and mentally) go for it. Good luck :)
linearthinker, DNP, RN
1,688 Posts
I'd hire you. Someone who put herself through college while on hemodialysis 3x/week demonstrates "True Grit," if you will. Good for you, hang in there and you will do well!