[rosieseattle]

Let's face it. How many of us are going to last an extended period of time, working 12 hours shifts, night shifts, etc. Some medical experts are convinced that night nurses are more at risk for breast cancer. Think about the way that facilities treat nurses that are injured or ill. They want this "crisp" robot that can run their legs off for 12+ hours straight, have a continual smile, and meet all their patients needs. But, what happens when that nurse becomes a patient? I would think long and hard before I took a full-time job with any facility, primarily because of the way they treat you if you are ill or disabled. They promise and promote wellness and caring to the community, but tend to treat their own nurses just the opposite. It would be nice if every nurse could just independently contract themselves out, and facilities would learn to appreciate them for all the hard work they do!

[renerian]

I have been hearing impaired for about 10 years. I have a hearing aide but I cannot always wear it at work because the phones just make it buzz. I have learned to read lips fairly well. Many people do not realize I am hearing impaired but they can tell quickly if they call me and my back is to them LOL. I have had hearing impaired phones before to help me which made a huge difference. I am 50% impaired in the right and 75% in the left.

renerian

[zudy]

Just as an aside, One of our ENT doctors where I work is deaf. He wears hearing aides. He also always wears a button on his labcoat that says, "I'm not deaf, I'm just ignoring you!"

[lola & lila]

Hi,
I'm 34 & had my aprox, 6-7-8th hip surgery (Procedures too) in 2001. In 2001 it was totally replaced...childhood birth defect or something they really aren't sure...evryone it soooo totally different for recovery...did you have your doctor RX a note for light duty? It's a try...I can't imagine a hospital giving you a hard time concidering your case.Afterall, they can't be pred.on an employee w/a disability...sometimes the way you word things to them will be enough for them to BACK-OFF.Where are you from?

[HyperRNRachel]

I have a question related to this topic about a class mate of mine. She is 57,
walks with the use of a cane, and cannot stand-up for longer than 10 minutes. My concern is that she could complete the program, but what is going to happen when she begins to apply for nursing positions? I know about the disabilities act, but will she even be given a chance to interview if her disability is very evident? What positions will she be qualified to fill in the healthcare field with her ADN other than a floor nurse?

[Ortho_RN]

Well I just recently found out that I have Narcolepsy.... I was feeling tired all the time, but chalked it up to being a new nurse working night shift... Dr. said nope definatley Narcolepsy and he ordered me to get off of nights.. Which I happily did... But my Unit Manager, thinks its funny to make me work several night shifts during the schedule.. She just doesn't understand how it physically affects me, nor does she care... They do make medication for it, but I am trying to get pregnant, so we are doing the day shift, having a set sleep schedule kinda thing...

I also have chronic migraines, which Thank god for FMLA!!

[lola & lila]

Originally Posted by hyperstudent

I have a question related to this topic about a class mate of mine. She is 57,
walks with the use of a cane, and cannot stand-up for longer than 10 minutes. My concern is that she could complete the program, but what is going to happen when she begins to apply for nursing positions? I know about the disabilities act, but will she even be given a chance to interview if her disability is very evident? What positions will she be qualified to fill in the healthcare field with her ADN other than a floor nurse?

I can only say from personal exp.that we have great days...then not so good,but hopefully she will do well.Other than hospital nursing she can try vna or ins companies.They offer employment to rn's (lpn's too) for insurance involvment doing many area even disability claims...these would not be as physically challanging.But, she might surprise you all.....if she wants this BAD, than she will do her very best to go"unnoticed", I did.

[healingtouchRN]

No way should she do that! You need an excuse not to do nights & use your FMLA is needed! Not funny nor is it safe for the client!!!
hang in there sweetie, & God speed on your conception! Suz

Originally Posted by Ortho_RN

Well I just recently found out that I have Narcolepsy.... I was feeling tired all the time, but chalked it up to being a new nurse working night shift... Dr. said nope definatley Narcolepsy and he ordered me to get off of nights.. Which I happily did... But my Unit Manager, thinks its funny to make me work several night shifts during the schedule.. She just doesn't understand how it physically affects me, nor does she care... They do make medication for it, but I am trying to get pregnant, so we are doing the day shift, having a set sleep schedule kinda thing...

I also have chronic migraines, which Thank god for FMLA!!

[rnmom3153]

HI all, I wanted to try to renew this thread with current updated info. I am having serious problems with disabilities, working, (or should I say "not working") and living. I have issues with chronic pain (for years) and now NARCOLEPSY. I have no insurance, no means of support (when I can't work...I've actually been homeless:-(.] I am desperately seeking information, support and help! I've been "narcoleptic" for years, but always blamed everything else! NO MD, THERAPIST, PSYCH,NP...NO ONE has ever picked up on this or suggested sleep disorders! AND it's treatable!! I have an rx for provigil, but no $$$ to fill it! Anyway, please respond if you can! THANKS in advance. The support and info on this board is outstanding, so I know help is out there. I have a strong faith, as well.

[curlyfries]

First thing first, you need to go to your local department of human services and apply for Medicaid, temporary assistance and food stamps. Note that you have a emergency where they can approve your application for Medicaid and food stamps within a week. If you're approved for Medicaid, they will pay for your medical bills three months prior.

http://www.cms.hhs.gov/medicaid/

Secondly you need to call or visit the Social Security Administration to schedule an appointment for Social Security Disability Insurance benefits. That process will take six months however they can approve you for SSI while you wait. You'd would have to provide medical documents or they will request medical documents from your health care providers.

http://www.ssa.gov/applyfordisability/

Don't wait too long do it ASAP!