HIPPA for employees?

[bcrnsi]

I am a recovering addict that has not used in several years. I went to nursing school after I got clean and sober. I have marks on my arms from prior abuse. I just got my RN license this past summer. I was offered a job at a facility and one of the requirements is to pass a physical. I am fearful that my scars might mess things up for me. I don't know if employees are covered under HIPPA. I haven't used in a long time, so I know that my drug screening will be clean. I am just worried about explaining myself. Should I confide in the person examining me? Or should I keep my mouth shut about my recovery status? I am certain that whoever examines me will definitely see the lipodystrophy on my arms. I also have scarring from cellulitis that look like burn marks. I need some feedback. Thanks.

[Flo., BSN, RN]

I wouldn't know what those scars were from if I saw it.

[SBarn]

Congratulations on graduating and an even bigger congrats on being a recovering addict! You have overcome two huge obstacles already. I doubt something as small as a physical can hold you down :)

[canesdukegirl, BSN, RN]

I wouldn't disclose the reason for your scars. The rumor mills at hospitals are TERRIBLE and could impact you negatively-wrong as it may be, it is reality. Keep it to yourself, and if someone asks you directly (and rudely) just respond that your scars are from trauma. THAT is a true statement, and you don't have to explain anything else.

Good luck to you!

[classicdame, MSN, EdD]

don't volunteer information. It makes you sound like you are being defensive. You have come a long way and have every reason to be proud of your accomplishments. If someone needs to know for hiring purposes then be short and sweet. Everyone has a past

[FLmomof5]

And remember....scars aren't always what they seem. My brother, as a teen, went A-over-teakettle off the back of a pickup. When the nurse discharging him removed his IV, she ripped a swath of skin (oval shaped). After that, he was challenged numerous times about "prior drug use"....and he was never a user!.....so you never really know what caused a scar!

[GreyGull]

However, keep in mind that this may be a physician, NP or PA doing the examination and keeping information from them by be vague or lying about the scars can also go against someone. They also will probably not be running to tell everyone all they know about you and must also treat any therapy or treatment as part of your medical record with the same rights to privacy.