Disabilities while being an RN

[aharley_]

Hi All!

I have recently graduated nursing school in New Jersey. I am making a big move to Washington very soon and had already started looking for job prospects as well. I have a medicinal marijuana card for NJ (since it is only legal medically), and it helps with the 5-6 autoimmune disorders that I currently face. As well, as helping me sleep. This has helped me avoid constant pain meds. I understand that it is not accepted on a federal level and have no other choice but discontinue the marijuana as part of my medication regimen. Nevertheless, I have been doing OK due to nutritional/dietary changes made and have been able to get through my day w/out. I am reaching out to see if anyone has any advice on this and entering my new career as a nurse. 

[medical_zebra]

It is legal in Washington, however, your job would probably not allow it. It may be an accommodation you can ask for, but it could hinder your capabilities at work. Maybe pick a nursing job that you would be less likely to make critical mistakes like a primary clinic....or just take it after work or on weekends. You should find a rheumatologist and discuss medication options. Plaquenil and low dose naltrexone seem to be helpful for many with autoimmune issues. You can join one of the many autoimmune groups on facebook and ask about options. I have autoimmune issues as well and currently cannot work due to cognitive issues, but have seen several job postings lately that I think I could safely manage so I'm going to try. If not, I'll be applying for disability.

[WendyTu]

I wish I had advice. However, I'm here looking for advice myself.  I had a traumatic injury to my rt foot at 7. For several years, I was OK, as long as I only wore sneakers.  I start nursing in '95 and 2015, I can no longer walk on the industrial floors anymore. I've had to restorative surgeries in the past year to the foot, neither of which were successful.  many other things have been going on since I had to leave my job as Infection CTL/Wound care RN because I had lost 50 lbs in a year. Multiple Docs could find no reason.  I will assume it was the stress which was wicked, but I had YEARS of experience with problematic Nursing managers and Administrators, so I didn't think it WAS stress.  Anyway, I cannot walk for more than 3 or 4 hours before the inflammation and pain start. 

 

I'm 58 and only want disabi.ity until I can finish the online education I started but couldn't finish due to a tumultuous time in our family involving 3 surgeries (My husband and I), and then providing end-of-life care for my Mom, who passed on Christmas day 2020.  The school only gives access for a year, and this was the year! They have no compassionate dispensation to defer the expiration of the classes, and my husband will not pay again.  I'm dying to work, but I cannot do an 8 hour med pass.  Having supervised, I know that will be "out" for me too, because I'm a hands on supervisor.  NO SURPRISES on my shifts:).  anybody who has ANY advice, I would welcome your responses.  thank you for reading this.  I am desperate.