Visitor Topics
Working with RA
Hello fellow nurses:
I'm a 22 year old new grad (graduated in may 08) and work in a medical ICU. Last month after 8 months of pain and symptoms I was diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis. I'm currently on medications to manage the symptoms and potential flare-ups but frequently have to work with pain.
I went to my rheumatologist who pretty much stated that my unit is going to run me into the ground and perhaps I should start thinking about another unit or job.
Are there any nurses with RA who can give me some tips on coping with this situation? Have you changed units or positions or were you able to manage? Did you even let your nurse manager know about your condition?
Nursing is limitless. However I'm feel like I'm between a rock and a hard place. Your help is appreciated.
Danielle
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June 30th, 2009 at 10:22 pm
I worked for years in an ortho hospital and after back surgery I had to make a shift to another area and like anything else you manage.
It is true what you wrote “nursing is limitless.” Be creative and find another interesting area within nursing when you feel a change is right for you.
I wish you well
Diane
July 5th, 2009 at 2:24 am
Start looking now while you are young. You have your age on your side. But protect your future. Don’t future hurt your health because ortho is tough PHYSICALLY!
July 6th, 2009 at 4:31 pm
I am so sorry about your pain. I am 30… and have had 7 surgeries on my left hip in the last 6 years due to a rare childhood bone disease “Legge-Perthes” that caused necrosis of the hip, and by 25 I had horrible arthritis. I know what it is like to be in pain daily…. and it can effect more than just your work.
I work nights at a jail…. so I don’t have to be on my feet too much, except for the morning pill pass. You see a lot, and learn a lot!!
Bottom line you need to take care of YOU and your body. I was stubborn for years trying to work jobs that left me in tears from the pain at the end of the day.
There ARE jobs out there you can do…. don’t let them tell you different!
P.S. Acu-puncture helped my pain a lot. And Lyrica (originally meant for fibromylagia) has really helped the pain…. and it is not a Narcotic!
I wish yo the best of luck – Kat