Bipolar

kmoonshine, RN · Sep 17, 2008

A pre-employment physical is an assessment to make sure you are fit for the job (they may check your eyesight, give a tb test, do a fit-test for a N-95 mask, make sure you can lift a certain amount of weight, make sure you can use proper body mechanics). You don't have to disclose any personal health info if you don't want to (but you'd have to lie if they ask you what meds you're taking).

I think it would be a bigger deal if you were diabetic or epileptic, since you could have a problem on the job. If you were to disclose your illness, it is supposed to remain private.

You will only have a physical after they offer you a job, and if they disqualify you based on being bipolar - that then becomes a disability discrimination issue and is illegal.

Just make sure to continue following up with your PCP/psychiatrist, and make sure you have a good support system too.

Babarnurse · Sep 17, 2008

i worked at a hospital, where the physical and drug screen were contingent on a job offer.

mondkmondk · Sep 17, 2008

Hi...I'm bipolar too...I currently possibly have a case against the last place I worked due to disability discrimination. They knew I was bipolar and could only work certain hours but not only did they cut my hours I was told I HAD to work day shift...when I'm an evening/night person due to my sleeping meds making me groggy the next day.

I felt when I was hired they would better understand the reason I could only work evenings or nights if I disclosed my disorder and the reason I was receiving SSDI for it. The turnover the facility had in DON's was part of the problem...the most recent DON was the one telling me I HAD to do day shift. About 7 DON's prior to this one accepted my working terms and gave me the 2p-10p shifts or 6p-6a shifts.

So far they have no idea I've already filed a claim with the EEOC. I'm prepared to sue them if I have to.

But anyway, to answer your question...only you can make the decision how much you want them to know. Of course, if your meds are primarily mood stabilizers and/or antipsychotics, they could probably figure it right out.

Blessings, Michelle

luv4lpns · Sep 17, 2008

Meds are to help people, being bipolar is a medical condition.. I would just tell the truth and hopefully they will respect that.

ilstu99 · Sep 17, 2008

I've never heard of anywhere requiring disclosure of any medical record....psych or otherwise. Unless there's some reason that you need to disclose your health conditions....that you are going to seek special considerations for it or something....there's no reason for your direct supervisor to know. Disclosure of anything specific discussed in your physical...from the department completing the physical to the main facility is against the law. They can only give you a "pass" or "fail." BPD would not cause a "fail."

You should be honest about any medications you are taking in a pre-employment physical. Many places perform drug testing, and it would be a shame if your test flagged positive and you had denied any prescription drug use. It makes you look guilty, and that IS a reason to fail you.

There are plenty of meds that I take for physical conditions, and I've never felt inclined to disclose them, nor have I had anyone ask. As long as I'm doing my job effectively and no one is at risk because of my personal health management....it's none of their business.

Congrats on your new degree! Now chin-up and be confident! :anpom: