As an inpatient registered nurse, how long would be recommended to wait before going back to work full duty?

Question

Full duty meaning pulling, pushing patients. Normal nurse duties in an inpatient hospital setting.

Chet Mays, MD · Answer

Thank you for your inquiry!  Activity restrictions are typically lifted 6 weeks post-op.  Schedule a consultation with a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon to help you reach your goals.

Ted Eisenberg, DO, FACOS, FAACS · Answer

In my experience, 2 weeks possibly, 3 weeks definitely. Always best to check with your surgeon's protocol. Dr. Ted Eisenberg, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and Author. RealSelf Distinguished Hall of Fame Inductee. Philadelphia, Pa., USA

Caner Kacmaz, MD · Answer

We do not want our patients to lift, push, or pull objects heavier than 5 to 10 pounds (2.3 to 5.4 kilograms) for 6-8 weeks after surgery. Keep this in mind when grocery shopping, lifting children or in your case patients , or doing laundry. Please do not do strenuous exercises for 6 weeks after surgery

Aaron Gilson, DO · Answer

Normal nurse duties can involve quite a bit of physical labor! Generally, I recommend at least 4 to 6 weeks of minimal or decreased physical activity. However, everyone heals at a different rate and this can take longer. While minimizing upper body lifting is the most important, decreasing high impact activities is also key. As you heal during the first few weeks your body will begin to let you know what's safe and what is not. Its important to go slow and work up to any activities. Having spent many years side by side with inpatient nurses, one common issue is they're great team players and want to help when they're working - be careful not to go overboard on your first day back! You made an investment in your body, be patient and work with it to achieve your best results.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear jlopez326,
I understand your concern. It is best that you consult your plastic surgeon regarding post operative care and management (i.e including massage techniques and timing) specific to your case. Your surgeon knows your condition well and has preferences on when and what to use for faster healing and recovery. Post operative care and management depends on the type of surgery performed and the technique used during surgery among other factors.It is best, however, that you follow your plastic surgeon's advice on post operative care management for a smooth and faster healing and recovery.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Jeremy S. Nikfarjam, MD · Answer

Hi J,
I know this is tough! I have operated on many nurses from my local hospitals here (I love my nurses- I always say that it's the nurses at the hospital that raised me!) The medical answer is no exercise or heavy lifting for four weeks. I understand that it's not practical for most people to take four weeks off from work. Some of my patients will find a trusted co-worker that can help them for a few weeks when they come back. They get creative! 
Best of luck to you on your journey!
-Dr. Nik

Fernando Ovalle Jr., MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question! in general, surgical incisions have enough strength around the 6 week mark to do most strenuous activities and lifting without worrying that something bad is likely to happen. Every patient is different and every surgeon has a different post op protocol for each operation they do. I recommend seeking an in-person consult with a board certified plastic surgeon to go over all of your questions and options!

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

I would suggest waiting until 3-4 weeks. Since you will be wearing a bra, you should be close to regular work by 4 weeks.

Luis Bonetti, MD · Answer

You should be in rest at least 4 weeks post op. After 6 weeks you can pull and push patients. thanks

Lisa Sacks, MBBCh, FRCS · Answer

Hi jlopez326,My answer therefore reflects my own experience and dose not apply if you are having your operation with the anchor technique.I have many patients who are nurses who come to me for breast reduction. If you are having a very large reduction this will give you great relief to your neck, back, and shoulders. This usually overrides awareness of the post operative discomfort.I use the vertical scar technique which cuts fewer sensory nerves, so my patients often tell me it is much less painful than they were expecting.I usually sign off my patients for a minimum of three weeks. For nurses working as midwifes, and may need to run to a delivery, it is usually for longer.Going back to work in a very supportive sports bra is advisable.I hope this information is helpful..

As an inpatient registered nurse, how long would be recommended to wait before going back to work full duty?

Answers (12)

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