Disabled RN

[MunsonNV]

I am open for suggestions!! I am a BSN with MANY moons behind me. I was injured in an accident. During surgery, the lining of my spinal cord was nicked. It healed with scarring at the nerve root. Now I have a right leg that is partially paralyzed and walk with a cane.

Now, my problem is finding employment. Most employers here won't even consider a nurse who can't walk and carry a ton. I have had every illegal question known to God and man asked including specific questions asked about WHY I walk "funny"!! I truly miss nursng and want to stay in the field...Unfortunately, I live in a Right To Work state--you have no job security whatsoever!! I know about becoming a consultant but this is not an option here. Our job market is VERY tight and any administrative position, once filled, doesn't open until that person retires!!

Does anyone have any thoughts! I'm tired of working a job where I make only $11/hr when I was earning three times that amount!! HELP!!!

[Disablednurse]

Thanks I appreciate your help and support and I know that Munson does also. It really makes a difference when you know that you have others supporting you. I just found out that it will be 18 to 24 months before I am able to have a hearing to try to get my disability. My short term disability insurance runs out in December. God will help us thru, but all prayers will be appreciated.

[traumaRUs, MSN, APRN]

Several things come to mind: telephone triage, case management, school nursing, education - either at a college or in a dept where you have experience, pursuing a MSN to teach college or clinicals, home health management, LTC management. I wish you luck!!