Facing vision loss and kidney disorder: How can I find a new career path?

Dear Nurse Beth Advice Column - The following letter submitted anonymously in search for answers. Join the conversation!

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I have been a nurse for 17 years and found out two years ago that I have genetic kidney disorder and kidneys were at 50% ish and suddenly developed diabetic retinopathy which caused me to lose vision quite quickly. I have been in management most of my career and thought glasses would help but the specialist says no. Could you think of any shifts in career or accommodations that would allow me to go back to work in some capacity?

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Specializes in Tele, ICU, Staff Development.

I'm sorry to hear about the health challenges you've been facing. Given your extensive experience in nursing and management and the changes in your vision, several career shifts and accommodations might allow you to continue working in a meaningful capacity.

You are currently dealing with significant loss. If you haven't already, consider seeking support from a counselor to help you navigate your emotions.

Here are some career options and considerations:

Career Shifts

Telehealth Nursing

  • Description: Providing medical advice and support through phone or video calls.
  • Benefits: This can be done from home and often requires less visual acuity than in-person nursing.
  • Requirements: Good communication skills and comfort with technology.

Health Education and Training

  • Description: Developing and delivering training programs for other healthcare professionals or patients.
  • Benefits: You can use your management and clinical skills; you will be less dependent on detailed visual tasks.
  • Requirements: Strong verbal and presentation skills.

Medical Coding and Billing

  • Description: Processing patient data and medical records for billing purposes.
  • Benefits: This can be done remotely; specific accommodations can be made for visual impairment.
  • Requirements: Certification in medical coding (which you might already have or can acquire).

Healthcare Administration

  • Description: Overseeing operations within a healthcare facility.
  • Benefits: Focuses on strategic planning and management; less on direct patient care.
  • Requirements: Strong organizational and leadership skills.

Patient Advocacy

  • Description: Helping patients navigate the healthcare system and ensuring they receive appropriate care.
  • Benefits: Involves leveraging your clinical knowledge without needing detailed visual tasks.
  • Requirements: Excellent communication and advocacy skills.

Case Management

  • Description: Coordinating care for patients with complex health needs.
  • Benefits: Focuses on planning and coordination rather than direct patient care.

  • Requirements: Strong organizational skills and clinical experience.

Accommodations

Assistive Technology

  • Screen readers. Software like JAWS (Job Access With Speech) or NVDA (NonVisual Desktop Access) can read text aloud.
  • Magnification software. Programs like ZoomText or built-in magnifiers in operating systems can enlarge text and images.
  • Voice recognition. Tools like Dragon NaturallySpeaking can help with documentation and communication.

Workplace Adjustments

  • Ergonomic adjustments. Customized workstations with better lighting and ergonomically designed equipment.
  • Flexible schedule. Part-time or flexible hours to manage health needs better.

Support Services

  • Orientation and mobility training. It helps with navigating the workplace safely.
  • Vision rehabilitation services. Provides training on using assistive devices and adapting to vision changes.

Steps to Take

  • Consult with a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor. They can help assess your skills and interests and guide you toward suitable career options and necessary accommodations.
  • Reach out to your employer. Discuss your situation and explore possible accommodations or alternative roles within the organization.
  • Update skills and certifications. Consider taking courses or certifications that align with the new career paths you're interested in.
  • Exceptional Nurse by Donna Maheady, ED.D., ARNP, is an excellent place to start. I highly recommend her website. 
  • Network with professional organizations. Groups like the National Federation of the Blind (NFB) or the American Council of the Blind (ACB) can offer resources, support, and networking opportunities.
  • Consider joining the National Network of Nurses with Disabilities for support, networking, and resources.
  • There is a Nurses with Disabilities forum here online.

Here are a couple of good articles for you: 

Leveraging your nursing and management experience and with the right accommodations, you can explore many pathways to continue contributing to the healthcare field. It's important to work closely with healthcare providers, vocational counselors, and your employer to find the best fit for your skills and health needs.

Very best wishes,

Nurse Beth

 

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