Help!

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I have recently decided to go back to school to obtain a nursing degree. I have some questions, though, for anyone who might have been in a situation like mine or know of someone who has found themselves in the same predicament. I am applying to nursing schools in the immediate future and most schools ask for physicals. Here is my dilemma. I am HIV positive and I am not really looking forward to disclosing that information to anyone really-unless its absolutely necessary of course. Is there a way to enroll and become a nurse without ever having to disclose my status? I've been doing research online and have read about prospective students getting "chilly" or no responses at all from their prospective schools. I've also heard that nurses who have disclosed their status have faced discrimination in the workplace. I guess what I am really asking is-should I continue to pursue a career in nursing or would I be wasting my time because I may not get accepted to the schools I want because of my status?

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Specializes in L&D, infusion, urology.

I don't think it would keep you out of nursing school, and honestly, I'm not far enough along in the application process (I have an offer for once I am licensed) to know what all hospitals ask with regards to any kind of health questionnaire or that sort of thing. That said, I would call HR at a few local hospitals, and ask them directly (ideally without sharing your name, if possible). Be matter-of-fact about it, and see what they have to say. It's worth it to apply to the schools if you can't get a direct answer. You could also look at the state board where you are and see if there's anything prohibiting someone with your diagnosis from becoming a nurse or working as a nurse (or even from being educated to become a nurse).

Good luck!

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Thanks for the feedback! I'm definitely going to take your advice on calling the HR departments. I have thought about nursing for a while and it's something I am really passionate about. However, the stigma surrounding HIV is ridiculous. I am in no way undermining the seriousness of my condition but people still have the 1980s view of the illness. It drives me up the wall. Im not dying, I'm just trying to get on with my life lol. I've read somewhere that a lot of schools are really "don't ask, don't tell" about it too.

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There is an association with a website dedicated to nurses that work primarily with HIV patients, but they also dedicate their time to nurses with HIV. There is absolutely no reason why your status would preclude you from nursing school or the profession. As the other poster states, it may come up on the physical you would need after acceptance into the program, but again as long as your medically cleared that does not matter. You're also protected by the ADA from having to disclose any further, so it is a very limited need to know situation. Some state boards of nursing require you disclose to them, while most do not. This link to the nursing organization I spoke of includes a link to frequently asked questions of those with HIV desiring to enter the profession. It also includes contact information to get more assistance if you have further questions. With hospitals I believe again it would only be part of the questionnaire associated with employee health clearing you as fit for duty after a preliminary offer of employment and you are protected by the ADA from having to disclose to anyone else at your employer. Here's that link:

HIV+ Nurse Specialty Committee - Association of Nurses in AIDS Care

My brother has been HIV positive for just over ten years and is just fine. You're right that some people are not educated, or refuse to understand, that this is not the 80s and that this is a manageable disease like any other. If you are passionate about becoming a nurse I say go for it! Do not let the possibility of a few select small minded people finding out along the way and having a negative response deter you. Instead, think about how much you can do to help others in a profession that you have a calling for.

Best of luck on your endeavors!

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Thank you so much for your encouraging words! The information on the link was exactly what I was looking for! I'm definitely passionate about nursing and will indeed pursue a career as one! Again thank you all for your responses!

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You are very welcome! I wish you all the best and I'm sure you will make a great nurse!

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:) God willing!

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