Work Issues and Pain Meds!

[JENLRN]

Hello I have a question for you all...Please reply because I think this is something we all think about. I have had IC for a long time. I have been off work awhile but need to go back. My doctors have started me in a pain management program and I am also on long actings. For those of you with severe IC pain, and are on long actings, I am a RN, and really feel that I dont have any side effects that would prevent me from "safe practice" But with so many people who dont understand real pain and how these medications work, how can I get a job? If anyone has delt with this issue, what can I do. I am afraid when I turn in my applications and also afraid of the drug screening process.I am afraid that if I am honest and tell them about my disease and what is being done to treat it, they will smile and think I am just some "addicted" person and I wont ever work again!!! Are there only certain areas of nursing that I can work under these circumstances. Please help me, I feel so ready to start work again. Thank you so much, and you all have a merry christmas.

JenLRN

[carly]

Could you work for an insurance company? I was a respiratory therapist. I quit work because of my disease, but I know several RN's who left the hospital and went to work doing reviews for insurance companies. With the ppo's and hmo's and medicare, they use so many nurses for the reviews. Whatever you decide, good luck, and Merry Christmas to you too!

[ICNDonna]

I am not a registered nurse, but spent 25 years working in a Nursing Administration office --- I dealt with many personnel issues.

One thing I did learn is that it is possible for a RN to work and be on pain medications. The big thing was a confirmation from a physician that the medications were ordered and that they would not interfere with functioning in her responsibilities.

If you feel working as a floor nurse would be too difficult, there are many positions in major hospitals for RNs in various office positions, such as infection control, employee health, and even in a personnel office.

Good luck!
Donna

[Tami Stambaugh]

I am not sure of the laws in this situation but I feel as though you need to be honest when trying to get your job as a R.N. back. My IC doctor has several R.N. Nurses that he has prescribed long acting pain meds. too that have been able to go back to their jobs at the hospital. His outlook is he is thrilled that there are medications out there for his IC patients that have enabled them to do that. Most of his patients that are nurses are doing a great job of what they do. It has not interfered with their medical profession but has enabled them to be a better caregiver. I think I would explain to them about IC and who knows maybe you will actually run across someone who is familiar with the disiease and how painful it is and how long acting medications are beneficial to there everyday lifes. Good Luck and I am sure something will come through for you. Keep your head up high and don't let ANYONE degrade you and make you feel lesser than what you are!! I will keep you in my thoughts!!

Tami :)

[JENLRN]

well just to update, I have interviews for the hospital this week, I will be open and honest. Lets see how it works.

Thank you for your kind replys
Huggs
Jenn

[ICNDonna]

Way to go girl! And hold your head up and look them in the eye.

Sending an encouraging hug,
Donna

[auntiedeb]

wtg, I will be praying for you and hope you will get a job. let us know how you make out.

[JENLRN]

Well it did not take very long, I turned in my first aplication at the hospital that I wanted to work at, and I did get the job.(must be that nursing shortage : ) My physical and drug screening process is monday the 29th, and I was open and honest during my interview, they told me to have a note from my doctor and to take that in with me during the physical. So my urologist, who is a angel, will type that up for me this week. I am crossing my fingers, thanyou for your support. I am keeping you in my prayers too. I hope everyone has a merry christmas!!!

: ) Jennifer

[havingsuccess]

I am a nurse also and love my work. Congrats on getting the job, as they say honesty is the best policy. Good Luck and merry christmas!!

Success

[Iris]

Way to go Jennifer, glad you got the job. Have a great Christmas, hugs Iris hi grouphug

[Amanda]

I am very, very, happy for you!

Amanda

[Tami Stambaugh]

Congratulations Jennifer!!!!!!!!! Always keep a positive attitude and I am sure things will work out great for you!!! I am sure that you will take great care of your patients. Hope you had a Very Merry Christmas and start the New Year with a Bang!! Keep us posted and Good Luck!!

Tami

[Peta]

I have also had work issues due to my condition. I am a primary school teacher who has always been involved in coaching during and afterschool, music practice and a whole lot of others things you do with the job. I was at the stage where I could bearly walk around all day and when I started intensive treatment (hospital every 8 weeks) I was tired and cranky. I felt I was letting my class down so I took 6 months leave and went to live with my partner in another town (where he works) for a while. I actually ended up resiging from my job and taking a part-time position at a very smalls school (60 kids) in the next town. It has been great, only working a couple of days a week and resting the other days. I actually told my employer inthe interivew of my condition and they were great and supportive. I have been very lucky because when I told them I need to work full time (want to buy a house!) they gave me the rest of the hours vis a library position where I will be sitting down a lot! So I am very lucky. I just hope I keep improving and I am being very careful with how much I do. Sorry I have gone on a bit, but I am glad to hear you have found work.

Peta hi

[kiffy313]

Good for you, JENLRN, and all. I work in the occupational therapy field, and was also upfront an honest when I took the job. I only work PRN for now, as I am still trying to get this ic "under control". My employer is also very understanding and that sure helps! Happy New Year, everyone,
Kandy