Ethical dilemma! any suggestions?

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Specializes in M/S/Ortho/Bari/ED.

I am interviewing for my first nursing position after nursing school and just found out that an illness I have had for the last 3 months was something I picked up at one of my clinicals and is reportable to the CDC, but not transmittable person to person. (I thought I was just stressed out trying to get through my last semester). The condition is treatable with antibiotics, but is/was very serious and has a lingering effect on the body. I am feeling better now and I want to work.

Should I or am I obligated to disclose this information during my interview because the disease was reportable to the CDC and Health departments? Even though it is not transmittable.

I dont' want to raise any red flags against myself, but I also want to be covered in case their are residual issues down the road.

Any opinions?

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Specializes in Maternal - Child Health.

Since your disease was reportable, I would suggest contacting the CDC and asking them for advice on how to proceed with your job applications. They should be able to tell you whether or not you have any obligation to disclose this condition during the application/interview process. You will be required to complete an employee physical upon hire, but at that time, I believe it would be illegal for your employer to dismiss you because of your condition unless it prevents you from carrying out your job duties.

Good luck!

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Agree with Jolie. The school may have some responsibility in this matter, check with an attorney.

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