Lifting after RNY?

I am a nurse on an acute care unit, and my job involves a LOT of lifting. Lifting patients, bending, on my feet for 12 hour shifts, etc. Approximately how long would it be until I was able to perform my normal duties post-op RNY?  

I went back after 6 weeks and got easier patients for a couple of weeks.

Every plan I have seen says no lifting anything heavier than ten pounds, max, for at least 6 weeks after surgery. Some docs, like mine, say 8 weeks.

I wouldn't try to advance it any faster than that, or you could do serious damage.

My doc lifted restriction at 6 weeks.  

My mom had abdominal surgery (not wls) and didn't really follow the guidelines with the lifting.  She ended up with really huge herias that caused her a massive amount of problems over the years.  It's better to take it easy for a few months than to have multiple surgeries to fix what got messed up!

Good luck and hang in there.

My doctor also lifted my restrictions at 6 weeks, but when he did, I was surprised at how much strength I lost.  Even after you have your restrictions lifted, it may still take a while to get back to normal.  

Thanks all.  My charge nurse states she can place me on modified duty for as long as I need to be once I get back to work, which I am grateful for.  She was looking for a time frame... I keep telling her I don't even have my consult until next week, but I can understand her need to get my colleagues scheduled to take my place on the floor!

Yep, I was going to suggest modified duty or charge duty for the first six weeks, if you go back. You don't want to lift more than 10lbs until after your 6 week date.

Ceci