Fresh out of nursing school I worked in a busy Internal Medicine physician group. I had thought it would be my dream job, but after several months went by, for me it actually became a daily dull-drum of scheduling tests, refilling prescriptions, and tearing table paper. I remember getting excited when a patient needed a joint injection so I could prep and assist with a procedure! I know that sounds creepy to some. It's a nurse thing; some don't understand.
Nowadays as a Case Manager, it's still a thrill when an injured worker needs a joint injection, or a trigger point injection in clinic; Because I know this is something that will likely give that patient quick relief from their pain, and at the very least be diagnostic to clarify the pain generator. These injections typically consist of a lidocaine, an anesthetic to numb the area, and a steroid, which acts to reduce inflammation and promote healing. This is a wonderful thing.
One of the tools we keep in our back pocket is a specialist that can administer injections. Utilizing our nursing assessment skills we know when to pull out this tool, offering our injured workers a swift pathway to recovery and return to work, and our carrier customers benefit by reduced medical expenses and TTD payments. And THAT's altogether something to get excited about!
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