A 30-year-old nurse who works on a busy medical-surgical unit has been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS). What is this patient's priority health promotion activity?

Question

1. Negotiate a regular schedule of 8-hour day shifts and consider applying for nursing positions that are less stressful and demanding.
2. Work as hard as possible now because it may not be possible later.
3. Continue to work as scheduled without making changes.
4. Leave employment as a nurse because of the need for complete bed rest.

Answer 1

1
Rationale 1: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is progressive and will be negatively affected by working long hours and enduring stressful shifts. It is important for this patient to plan a schedule that is less demanding and move now to a work environment that is less stressful for adapting to life with MS.
Rationale 2: Working as hard as possible now will not slow the progression of the disease. The nurse must make work life changes.
Rationale 3: Work life changes are necessary. The patient needs additional physical rest and a less stressful environment.
Rationale 4: There is no indication that the patient cannot continue employment as a nurse or that the patient needs complete bed rest.