Dear Nurse Beth, I have been recently diagnosed as being autistic (the old moniker would have been Aspergers). I have been on the same unit for 10 years. Recently, there have been issues where my behavior has come into question and it is related to having autism. I am working with a therapist to help me and working on getting an official diagnosis. What rights do I have as someone that most likely has a disability that is recognized by ADA. I am a former teacher and the parent of 2 special needs kids. In school, they were protected by wrightslaw, which basically asserts that a child's unwanted behavior may be related to a disability and therefore, they cannot be reprimanded. They wanted to write up my child because he wouldn't "follow a direct command" (to eat) when his blood glucose was under 40. I am being "talked to" about things that are related to me being horrible in reading people in certain social situations. I have no malice or ill will toward anyone and I truly don't "get" what it is that I have done. Sorry this is a little rambly-I tend to wander. Edit as you need if you decide to address this issue. There is one thread about being a nurse and autism, but it hasn't gotten much traffic. Would love to hear your insight. Thanks!

Dear Recently Diagnosed, Autism is a covered disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The ADA is intended to prevent the discrimination of employees with a disability. You need to consult with an attorney to find out all of your rights under the law. To be protected by the ADA, you have to be able to perform the essential functions of the job, with or without accommodation. As an example, if interaction with your coworkers is deemed an essential function and you are unable to interact with your coworkers (ex., giving and receiving report), your employer does not have to retain you. Contrast this example with that of a coworker who complains you're unfriendly because you can't read social cues, which is not the same thing. Talk With Your Manager You might want to start by having a frank talk with your manager. While you don't have to disclose that you have a disability unless you are requesting an accommodation, it may help put the situation in context for her to know that you're autistic, how it affects you, and that you are working with a therapist. You say you are only recently diagnosed. Assuming you've performed your job successfully for 10 years, and your behavior has remained the same for 10 years, it's fair to ask your manager why feedback on your performance has suddenly changed. As far as the "talks" (which are really verbal counselings), ask for specifics. You could ask if there have been any patient complaints, or if this is just about social interactions. Ask your manager for help. Let her know you want to partner with her for your success. "Specifically how would my performance look different if I met job requirements in this area?" This clarifies which (if any) actual job requirements you are failing to meet. If the verbals progress to written discipline, it should include a performance improvement plan (PIP). A PIP protects you, because it requires your manager to identify attainable goals that you can accomplish. Without measurable goals, the feedback is not constructive and you are not given the opportunity to improve. Read "What to do When You Receive a Warning at Work" Talk to your union rep if you are in a union environment. Good Fit There was a new graduate nurse named Edison who was hired to a busy Tele unit. He came across as aloof and his preceptor, "Lisa", described him as "robotic". Technically he did well, but it didn't seem to be a good fit. Fast forward 10 years and Lisa was having surgery in a neighboring hospital. Imagine her surprise when in walked Edison-her CRNA. He was confident, professional, and very good at his job in the OR. He had discovered his niche and excelled at it. Word had it that he was highly requested as a CRNA- and especially by nurses ! It can be exhausting to try to figure out social cues all throughout your shift. Only you know what the optimal level of interaction and best setting are for you. Luckily there are literally hundreds of options in nursing. Best wishes and thank you for writing in, Nurse Beth Resources If you think you have been discriminated against in employment on the basis of disability, contact the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). National Organization of Nurses with Disabilities

Is this discipline or discrimination for being autistic?

Dear Nurse Beth Advice Column - The following letter submitted anonymously in search for answers. Join the conversation!

Autistic
Autism

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Career Columnist / Author

Nurse Beth, MSN

145 Articles; 4,528 Posts

Specializes in Tele, ICU, Staff Development.

9 hours ago, foxypaws said:

I think the most valuable lesson I can share is to set realistic expectations, communicate clearly, and have them teach back that they understand where you are coming from.

Your post made my day, thank you ?