Height Issues

Nurses General Nursing

Published

Hi! Im a filipina and would love to work abroad as a nurse since that is the only way to help my family and of course that is also my biggest dream. However there is one thing that keeps me holding back to pursue my dreams. I am only 4'8 tall.I'd love to hear your comments and suggestions. Thank you.

I work with a nurse who is 4ft 9in. As far as I can tell, it's not an issue here although I've heard it can be an issue in the Philippines.

Karou

700 Posts

Specializes in Med-Surg.

No issue here in Texas. I work with many filipina nurses, most of whom are 5 ft or under. I myself am 5 ft and it's never been a big problem. Sometimes I have to ask coworker to get something for me that's high up, but not often because we actually have a stool around for that purpose. Lifting is a weakness, my legs are short so I don't have as much height or leverage. It's not really ever been a problem though. If I have to do CPR and can't reach, then I can jump on the bed.

JustBeachyNurse, LPN

13,952 Posts

Specializes in Complex pedi to LTC/SA & now a manager.

Unless you have physical limitations your height is a non issue with the exception of needing a safe way to obtain items out of reach. There are step stools if needed. However it's not as easy to immigrate as a nurse as it was decades ago. Many areas there are no shortages and as such no need for employers to sponsor from overseas.

There's a US reality show "The Little Couple" the mom/wife is a neonatologist and is under 4ft tall. Her hospital makes accommodations such as step stools

Little Couple | TLC

Your potential opportunities for overseas work is increased if you have 5+ years paid specialty work experience. Most areas have a shortage of experienced specialized nurses.

PinayUSA

505 Posts

Against the law in USA to discriminate in USA.

Unlike Philippines where they want your picture and you must have white complexion, be a certain age range or gender.

TheCommuter, BSN, RN

102 Articles; 27,612 Posts

Specializes in Case mgmt., rehab, (CRRN), LTC & psych.

At a whopping 5'1" tall, I am somewhat vertically challenged. However, my lack of height has not created any issues with hiring or getting tasks accomplished during the course of my workdays.

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