Can I be terminated for an injury?

[tired_panda]

I'm orienting as a nurse on a floor that I love. Naturally, 2 weeks before I was set to finish my orientation, I fell at home and fractured my fifth metatarsal pretty significantly. My doctor told me not to work until I met with ortho, but I don't meet with them until next week.

My nurse manager was understanding and said I would actually be allowed to work light duty (on crutches, in a cast even) which is really crazy to me. My doctor was okay with that and signed me off to work. But, because I cannot do patient care I am going to fall behind on my orientation.

I found out that if I miss more than 12 days in a year (which seems like a lot), I will be terminated. I am terrified that ortho might suggest surgery, which could mean days off the floor, or that they will give me a more strict work restriction.

I am also afraid of how long I may be on crutches. If I am on them for weeks, I cannot imagine that my "light duty" will be enough of a contribution to warrant me staying on the floor.

I love my job and I love my floor. I am too new to be eligible for FMLA or LOA or anything that could help me in a situation like this. I am terrified of falling behind--or worse, being terminated. I know I should wait until my appointment to start worrying, but I'm a worrier.

Has anyone been in a similar situation, or does anyone know how these situations turn out?

[toomuchbaloney]

Check the policy on short term disability, and FMLA.

If you need time and also need to protect your position apply for FMLA.

[NotMyProblem MSN, ASN, BSN, MSN, LPN, RN]

I really don't see how anyone call fall behind on orientation. It is a period of learning and transitioning for the individual; it's not a group project. The patients are definitely not going anywhere...probably why your manager is so understanding. Whatever you are learning now will still be there once you return, should you have to take a step back for a little bit. It is better to take the time heal completely than to be burdened with the injury intermittently for some time to come. I know some employers expect you to be up-to-speed by a certain date. But they are also aware that this is not always the case with new nurses (I'm assuming you're new because we old gals know that stuff happens and would not lose one wink of sleep over unavoidable issues) and will revise/adjust your orientation period accordingly. Relax and take care of you.

Forgot to add, in an at-will state, you can lose your job for being the perfect employee. No reason needed. Don't sweat the small stuff...

[roser13, ASN, RN]

Check the policy on short term disability, and FMLA.

If you need time and also need to protect your position apply for FMLA.

OP is on orientation. FMLA won't remotely be applicable. STD may or may not, but it is doubtful.

OP, be forthcoming with the orthopedic surgeon. If there is a choice between conservative (non-surgical) treatment and surgery, you may well want to consider surgery. A fixation (if applicable) will provide a quicker route back to weight-bearing.

[NotMyProblem MSN, ASN, BSN, MSN, LPN, RN]

OP is on orientation. FMLA won't remotely be applicable. STD may or may not, but it is doubtful.

OP, be forthcoming with the orthopedic surgeon. If there is a choice between conservative (non-surgical) treatment and surgery, you may well want to consider surgery. A fixation (if applicable) will provide a quicker route back to weight-bearing.

I doubt STD would apply since the OP stated that light duty has been offered by the employer and "signed off on" by the doctor. After any anticipated surgeries, maybe. But barring any surgical procedures....

[chare]

If you haven't done so, you might want to contact your HR representative. While you don't meet eligibility requirements for FMLA, they might be able to work with you on this, particularly as are nearing the end of your orientation.