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@fieryrn

I saw my FNP yesterday and we discussed all the things… well she did agree to refer me for a PT consult. I have an appt on the 19th. She told me not to lift more than 20 lbs, no twisting or bending. I don’t know how I will be able to work with these restrictions. I am emotional with all the changes happening in my life.

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Replies to "I saw my FNP yesterday and we discussed all the things… well she did agree to..."

@fieryrn I don't know how you could not be emotional, given all that's going on in your life. Things do get scary, for sure. I hope that you will stay aware of what your body tells you, especially at work. Add to your own medical history being in what is now an even more stressful vocation, pacing yourself and asking for help with the heavy lifting is pretty important. Take care of yourself.

If you haven't already talked with a counselor, this might be a good time to do so. I can vouch for the benefit of talking through things. It's been a huge part of my mental health progress. Being in a caring profession is more stressful than many people imagine, and a danger of caring for others is ignoring one's own wellbeing.

If you're comfortable with sharing what emotions are being stirred up, we are here to listen.

Jim

A new diagnosis, with an unknown final outcome, is very scary. After all you have recently been through, the very thought that you might not be able to return to your chosen career would also be very difficult.

I see that you work in Labor & Delivery - one of the most strenuous nursing positions. You surely need a complete workplace assessment to see if your job meets the restrictions you have. I know it sounds like life is "piling it on" right now, but you may want to start thinking about less physical alternative nursing career choices...

I second @jimhd in his suggestion that it might be time for some help to sort this out. There are a lot of people here who can be a sounding board for you as you work your way through this - just ask!
Sue

Hi @fieryrn,
You will see that I moved your post about being scared over to your original post and I linked it to the bone joint and muscle group so that members can see the whole conversation in both groups.

I hope you are able to work with others in your unit to do the heavy lifting until you get this all figured out. Have they discussed bone strengthener medications with you? How are you feeling about this?