failed medical

bargainhound, RN · Sep 17, 2003

I did not know that positive Hep b would keep anyone from getting a job. Universal precautions and standard procedures protect patients and nurses.

I don't think that trying to get your lab to test negative would accomplish anything. Your body will still have the Hep B.

Tweety, BSN, RN · Sep 17, 2003

Many employers in the US don't screen for Hep B. The Veterans Administration hospital did in NC when I applied there. The same thing happened to me, I tested positive for Hep B and never was once symptomatic. I'm not aware that it can be seroconverted.

That said, at least around here, one's personal health history is personal. Being a carrier of Hepatitis B or even HIV does not affect one's ability to perform his/her duties as a nurse and isn't used as a criteria to deny one employment.

It is also not required that you disclose that information. One can be Hepatitis B positive, or even HIV positive and never meantion it to the employer. This employer I work for now does not screen for Hepatitis B or anything.

Nurses do not expose their blood and body fluids to patients, so the patients are at zero risk.

purplemania, BSN, RN · Sep 17, 2003

have you checked with any USA hospitals or Boards of Nursing for specific states? While "personal health is personal" may apply to citizens, the same rules may not apply to immigrants. Sorry for all this pain you are going through and wish I had the answer for you.

Talino · Sep 17, 2003

These lab tests are INS prerequisites of foreign recruits coming to the US, moreso among professionals seeking employment in the health care field. When tested positive, chances of admission to the US mainland for employment reasons become bleak.

The right to privacy does not extend to foreigners who desire to enter the US.

I have not heard of a proven seroconversion either. I have heard of Interferon and alleged Chinese herbal remedies (but no clinical proof to substantiate claims).

There is no known treatment. Prevention of spread is crucial. Stay healthy and protect others from getting infected. Vaccination of those close in contact should be considered.

Devastating news! I can only share the grief. May you find solace on an alternative.

sjoe · Sep 17, 2003

"I just got word from the agency where I applied that my hepatitis screening turned out to be positive, that is despite being totally asymptomatic. "

It is not clear what you mean.

1) Do you currently have active Hep B?

2) Have you had it in the past and thus are now permanently immune?

3) Have you had it in the past and are now a "carrier?"

If the first, than it is understandable that everyone would be better served if you wait until it is "over."

If the second, then I don't see what the big deal is. You would be in the same category with those who have received their Hep B immunization shots or are otherwise immune, such as myself and most of the other nurses on this BB.

If the third, then I can see a problem.

Or are you talking about Hep C?

Regardless, it might be a good idea to talk with an emigration attorney and/or nursing overseas agency, and learn what they have to say.

And if worse comes to worst, you can still work in the Philippines! Is that so terrible?