Question:
I am preop and a nursing assistant. My work requires a lot of lifting I would like

to know when I will be able to return to work after surgery.    — [Anonymous] (posted on February 28, 2002)

February 27, 2002
I was told to lift nothing over 5lbs for two weeks, and then after that nothing over 10lbs for six weeks. But after that the weight restriction was lifted. Hope this helps. It may also vary with surgeons, so make sure you follow your surgeons advice. Good Luck!
   — Deborah W.

February 28, 2002
I'm five weeks post-op and my surgeon said nothing over 10 pounds for 8 weeks.
   — Frances B.

February 28, 2002
I am a paramedic for the Detroit Fire Department. Which is similar as far as lifting goes. I had a Open Duodenal Switch on April 26, 2001. I was off for a total of 12 weeks because I would not have been able to lift. Not only do we have the patient, but there is the drug box, monitor, oxygen bag, and equipment bag. That along with a patient is quite a bit of weight. You know that there are not too many patients that weigh 5#. There is the possiblity of lifting with another co-worker, but I would plan on being off for a little while. Good luck.
   — Margaret M.

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