Attempting to Return to Work After Six Years

Nurses Disabilities

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I was severely ill and am happy to report that I am now doing better and am preparing to go back to work.

Question: When I interview, I can anticipate the managers will have concerns because of the gap in employment. I look "fine" and do not appear disabled.

I really don't want to go into much detail during the interview, how can I minimize this? Can I? They will want to know why I was out for so long. Is there a diplocatic way to answer questions that is truthful, without giving too much detail?

Do you have any tips for me regarding the interview?

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Specializes in med/surg, home health.

I would NOT tell them you were ill! The employer will see you as a liability rather than an asset. (I am learning the hard way!) I would say " I left nursing for a time due to family obligations" They do not need to know anything more. Tell them how you have kept current in your knowledge. (reading journals, taking classes etc..) Be positive, tell them you're excited to return etc. The employer thinks of their insurance costs, sick leaves, etc.. They do NOT have your best interests in mind, and even if they act sympathetic to your prior illness, they will find a way to not hire you.

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thanks nursecat64! that was my first thought too and to be honest, I don't want anyone to know. I found I either received sympathy or apathy as a response and I want neither. I feel a little dishonest but I read an article once the mentioned that everything is on a need to know basis and if they don't need to know then you don't have to tell. I've become better through the years being "honest but evasive" but sometimes it's still difficult. It doesn't come naturally.

Thanks, you gave me validation - shouldn't need it but I did.

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Specializes in Geriatric/Sub Acute, Home Care.

I was let go from a LTC job back in my home state in 2009, lack of work was the reason not a health problem, many were let go. Its been a battle ever since because when I moved to another state I wanted a different career in Nursing because of very bad past injuries I sustained on my job. And as Nurse cat stated, dont let them know anything during the interview. I would just say it was a sabatical that was necessary at that time. ......I have Injury related arthritis in my neck, back hips and shoulders from all the lifting, pulling pushing I did......it doesnt matter, they dont care....Its a horrible thing when the medical profession we look up to refuses to let a nurse come back and work. If a physical gives you the clear, I see no reason for a facility to not let you back to work. Its a darn shame that when WE as nurses get sick or injured our own turns us away in times of need, but we never did that to our patients, or management if they were in dire need of overtime, or extra work to be done. Its a win lose situation. I wish I had the answer.....they themselves lack the compassion for their own who have suffered and want to return to work to help people again. Who is more qualified to treat the sick then ones who have experienced it themselves or has spent time in a hospital....But they dont think so...... So sad.

5]I was severely ill and am happy to report that I am now doing better and am preparing to go back to work.

Question: When I interview, I can anticipate the managers will have concerns because of the gap in employment. I look "fine" and do not appear disabled.

I really don't want to go into much detail during the interview, how can I minimize this? Can I? They will want to know why I was out for so long. Is there a diplocatic way to answer questions that is truthful, without giving too much detail?

Do you have any tips for me regarding the interview?

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Specializes in Critical Care, ED, Cath lab, CTPAC,Trauma.

Don't say you were ill......"I took a sabbatical to care for a close family member and I am ready to return to the workforce I have missed so much. I have kept current....."blah. blah, blah

:hug: I am so happy you are feeling better.....I really miss being a nurse.:sniff:

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Thanks all for responding and I appreciate your comments. Unfortunately, I've had a relapse and will have to start all over again. Guess I'll never learn to accept my limitations!

Thanks again!

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Specializes in M/S, OB, Pedi, HH, util review.

I'm so glad to see your post! I've been out of work for six years, also, due to illness with recurrences. Unfortunately, I don't look well. I'd like to return to work, but will have obvious indications that I have been ill. Even if I go for a job in UR or insurance, where patients won't see me, I anticipate the interview being difficult because I believe they will stop the minute HR sees me.

I was advised by someone to do the same as was above-mentioned.....just say you took a sabbatical for personal reasons. Now, does anyone have any ideas on how to approach how I look? How do I explain that?

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I have the same advice as the other nurses' comments above. I really hope you find a job that you like. Good luck on your future interviews! :)

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Dear nursecat64,

I am new to allnurses and just found you discussion today. I am in a similar situation except my illness came just after receiving my RN license so, I have not had any "real" experience yet. I see you had a relapse of your illness and said a prayer for you today. My heart goes out to you. After putting so much time an commitment into nursing, it must be frustrating to be out of practice. By now, I hope your health has improved.

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