So, I’ve been casually searching for a new job. I’m a nurse and finished my master’s degree in nursing education a few years back. I’m ready to move on from direct patient care. I’m an operating room nurse and it is very physically demanding. I still do fine working in the OR, but I’m thinking more towards longevity and preserving my career.
A position opened up for a case manager for neurology, specifically for MS. I’d be working for my neurologist, lol! I had a virtual MS appointment last week and I told him I applied. We ended up talking about the job the entire time, as my MS is doing well. He seemed very open and optimistic about me doing the job.
Since everyone here has MS, I wanted to know what you think? Is it too much of a conflict of interest for me to work with MS patients? Or would it be a good thing for someone who has MS (me) to relate to and care for patients with the same condition? Also, dr said it can be a very draining and sometimes dark/sad position…not sure that would be good for me having the same condition 🤷♀️
Lots to consider and nothing is for sure, but wanted to get your perspectives.
Thanks for reading, Jessica ☺️
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Jer29-11
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Although working full-time with multiple sclerosis can be a struggle, I would think it would be a good fit (occupationally, physically and emotionally).
Also, I think it would be quite a rewarding position, which would use both your education and your experience, and provide you the opportunity to give back and support others with neurological disorders.
Of course, you would only disclose to patients or others, if you wanted to, as the staff would already know the circumstance of your employment, right? But, I think working in your neurologist's office would be wonderful.
Yes, it can be dark, as most medical conditions are, and any disease progression can be bleak; however, I feel by your" walking the talk," both you and the patients could benefit greatly from your getting the job.
You could be more than empathetic with patients, too. Someone who can relate like no one else as you "are walking in their shoes" so to speak.
Best wishes to you regardless of your decision. 🙂🙏👍
Yes, being a nurse is hard! Luckily I work part time 8 hour shifts now and I’ve been working as an OR nurse for 12 years, so it’s almost second nature. Definitely couldn’t do 12 hr shifts on the floor!
I think it would be fantastic! As someone with MS, you would bring your personal experience into the job and perhaps be able to provide more insight to the doctors. As far as the stress of working full time, only you know what you're capable of right now, and none of us know what the future will bring.
My mother was an RN with no health problems, and when she realized that hands-on nursing wasn't a good fit for her she switched to administrative duties and had a ball shuffling paperwork. From there, she eventually found a work-from-home job before those were really a thing.
I think this is a major step in the right direction for you.
The infusion nurse for my first neurologist had MS. I never met her because I didn't start Ocrevus until after she retired.I am guessing there are other nurses with MS working with MS patients in some way. Especially since MS is more common in women and nursing is still dominated by women. Most male nurses seem to gravitate to ER, orthopedics and ICU.
I am a radiation oncology nurse but if a position like that opened up near me I would apply!
Speaking as a patient I think that it would be great to have a nurse with MS. Speaking as a retired nurse I think it might be too stressful/depressing and might be detrimental to my health. It’s a very difficult decision to make, I know nurse educators are in short supply, good luck with your new career.
congratulations. I was a nurse for 35 years and ended my career as a nurse educator with a Masters Degree in Nursing Education like you. Personally I think you are making the right move. OR nursing is very physically and emotionally draining. You are used to “dark” situations. This move I believe will extend your career. You have lots to offer these MS patients on this role. You have been Chosen by God for this role, embrace it and make a difference like you always have as a nurse
I think depressing wins over surgeon temper tantrums. You didn't mention if case management was your end goal, if so, this would get experience even if MS is not your cup of tea. Or if case management is not where you see your retirement party, would a few years here be the best stepping stone along your way?
Yeah, it's depressing and our neurologists stay in it 🤷♀️ I've been traumatized by a few assignments because I have it too, but the flip side is a lot of gratitude (and maybe a small amount of paranoia). Sometimes I know how to navigate my issues because of previous training or experience, and I can deal with it and move on. What if your experience as a MS case manager now provides some valuable insights for your own journey decades from now 🤔
I’d leave my current job. Still trying to work out logistics of it all with going full time along with childcare. Not sure if it will work out yet 🤷♀️
first, congrats!🥂 wonderful news. i think there could be some sadness, as you know what it's like for many of the patients, but if you can stomach it, you'd do them no end of good. the first thing that came to mind was a nurse i often saw at the ms center. i liked her, she was kind and patient. then i developed this really odd symptom. i couldn't control my speed. my brain decided i had to race when walking. it was so exhausting & i was humiliated as it must've looked ridiculous. anyway, she kept trying to make a joke of it. then she started saying, "slow down," like i could control it. i exploded at her. yes, i was also experiencing roid rage, but i remember feeling infuriated. she had no idea what i was going through and never could, else she wouldn't have gone on at me.
bit of a story there, but can you imagine how much you'll be able to express to the doctor what the patients experience? you'll help them be a better doctor. also, the patients will probably all want you to be their nurse.😀 i know health professionals mean well, but they (usually) just don't get it.
in the end, it's about what you want to do. you could try it and if it's too much, you could look for a different position. even a little time working there would help many people.
would you be able to still work part time ?? i think it would be great for you to help the doctor understand what it is to have MS for you having it and can discuss it with you after you have spoken with a patient and can give him insights of what you think is going on or just ask more questions ...good luck with what ever you do ....love and happiness is what is the greatest option ....good luck ...
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