Posted 6/20/2018 5:24 PM (GMT 0)
"I got TB and hepatitis testing last week, so I’m thinking that’s for the biologics "
Correct, screening before biologics. Biologics work in less than 6 weeks, often in 3 weeks or so.
"Do people usually have to get a new colonoscopy before transitioning to biologics? Or are symptoms and lab work enough proof?" I had a flex-sig prior. Depends how much proof your insurance needs.
"Are people on both oral steroids and rectal steroids ever?"
Generally just one or the other.
"Any tips for surviving a flare and not losing my job?"
Pred generally keeps me together and things manageable enough to work, although I'm an office-worker with a bathroom close by that I can use at will. Not sure whether your nursing duties enable quick, unplanned access to bathrooms or not (Depends if you are at a station and need a cover to leave that station, in an operating room, etc.). You should be protected by FLMA and ADA, talk with your HR. Often employers are willing to do reasonable accommodations while you are given time to heal: allow you to work reduced hours, work near a bathroom, have desk duties, allow late arrivals, etc.
We try all sorts of things when we're flaring, from imodium, to not eating before/during the work day (less input = less output) and only eat at night. In the end, healing from the flare is the best solution; aggressively finding what works.