Question:
are there any medical careers that don't involve needles?
ashley m
2014-04-14 09:07:40 UTC
I want to help people, and more so animals, but I do not want to use needles. I know that many jobs require you to learn how to use needles in school/training, but are there any careers that I don't have to do that either? I have always had a huge fear of needles, but I have gotten better. I have worked in an orthodontics office, which does not include needles, and I saw blood daily so that is not the issue as much. Thank you!
Three answers:
Simpson G.
2014-04-14 09:11:55 UTC
This is an often asked question and the only answer I've been able to come up with is Speech Language Pathologist, if we are talking about Patient Care. An argument could be made for MSW and Psychologist, but I don't know if you consider that in the "medical field" and you could still deal with patients getting injections while you are in the room or nearby.



Pretty much all other Patient Care positions will see needles or deal with needles at some point during their career. Yes, this includes Physical Therapist, Occupational Therapist, Pediatrician, Medical Assistant, CNA, RN, and LPN.



Any kind of radiology tech (sonography, ultrasound, MRI, CT, x-ray) will also have to deal with needles at some point. They may have to shoot a film during a surgery, during an emergency, etc. They have to know how to run an IV.



It all comes down to how deep your fear of needles is. If you can see other people use them and give injections to a patient, then your options are more open. If you can't even see a needle without passing out or getting woozy, then your options are severely limited.



Edit: RD may work, but you also have the chance of dealing with patients with diabetes and you have to help them monitor glucose levels in your presence or even to help give insulin. This isn't necessarily something you are trained in in school, but it can become a part of the job by default.
D
2014-04-15 07:56:27 UTC
If you only want to avoid being the one who uses the needle, and you want to work with animals, then a PT might work. Although PTs do see needles during training (lines that are placed, etc) we generally do not stick anyone during training, and if you want to work with animals in that capacity you can. Some PTs do perform sticks in certain capacities once out working, but it can be avoided if you feel strongly about it.
Fester Frump
2014-04-14 09:10:04 UTC
Registered Dietitian


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