Are there any nurses here? Can I have some work advice please?

[avenanap]

I'm taking a break from training as a peads nurse, I have 1 year left. 18 months ago I contracted Glandular Fever and have not been well since then. I think I have chronic fatigue but my GP is hesitant to diagnose this. I am due to rejoin the course but I don't know any nurses that have CFS and I don't know if I would be able to rejoin as I would be classed as disabled if diagnosed. Does anyone know of any nurses working with ME? Thanks.

Could you not work part time when you qualify. I know a nurse with MS who only works part time as she cannot cope with full time. Also if you are classed as disabled, any employer would have to accomodate your needs. Forgive me if I am wrong, dont know much about ME, but is there not a chance it will get better. i would go for it, you have only one year left, but only if you feel able.

I don't know. Some days I am so exhausted it's hard to get out of bed. I don't feel safe working with sick children when I'm like this. The Uni were less then supportive when I became ill as I needed lots of time off. I don't know how I will feel when I wake up and I don't think I'll be allowed to change my shifts.

i used to work with a nurse who had ME (she has just left to go to work abroad) and she did 8hr shifts instead of the normal 12hr starting at 12noon til 8pm rather than the 7.30am til 8pm. i think she also worked 30hrs per week. although i didnt pay too much attention to her off-duty i think she mainly did back shifts rather than earlys to give her a chance to have a lie-in and get ready for work. HTH and good luck with the rest of your training.