Eek, physical exam???

1. So I was just accepted into a nursing program, and I have to have a physical exam as one of the health clearances. What should I expect? I am overweight and hypothyroid. What would disqualify me? Any input please is appreciated!!

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2. 

   About allycat77, BSN, RN

   Joined: Nov '11; Posts: 94; Likes: 11

   6 Comments

   Comment
3. 
   Mar 4, '13

   It shouldn't. I, too, am overweight and have never had a problem. My weight doesn't limit me from much. Yeah, I can't walk as fast as others, but I don't let it stop me. As long as your doctor clears you you should be fine!
4. 
   Mar 4, '13

   Thanks! I have been stalking this post for replies! I am working on losing weight, was just hoping that it wouldn't turn into a big thing.
5. 
   Mar 4, '13

   It doesn't matter what you weigh, as long as you are capable of doing the job of nursing, you'll be fine. We have a lot of larger people in my nursing class that all had to take that same physical exam. They just want to make sure you can perform the duties necessary to be a nurse.
6. 
   Mar 4, '13

   Quote from allycat77

   So I was just accepted into a nursing program, and I have to have a physical exam as one of the health clearances. What should I expect? I am overweight and hypothyroid. What would disqualify me? Any input please is appreciated!!

   The physical is pretty basic. They will check your BP, urine, height and so forth. Once of the things they will test is your strength. You will have to push/pull on the doctors hands and he/she will then determine if you are strong enough to do the job. I wouldn't worry too much, I haven't heard of anyone being kicked out because of a weight issue with their physical. Best of luck to you and welcome to the program!! It's a wild ride so hold on.
7. 
   Mar 4, '13

   You should be fine, depending on your school, you will either have a routine physical done by your primary care doc or they will send you somewhere. My school is hospital based so we had to have our physical there, at employee health, just as if we were new employees of the hospital and it was still pretty basic. Height, weight, BP, etc. Then they ran through some basics like picking up a box, walking with it (bend at the knees, back straight, etc.) and some other basic ergonomics. TB test, immunizations and that was it. Good Luck to you as you start the program and congratulations on getting accepted!
8. 
   Mar 4, '13

   Thanks everyone!

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