Jumping through the orientation hoops

Christie RN2006 · Jun 26, 2007

Some places are just very strict about things like that. For the first PPD test at my work you have to have 2 different injections then after that once a year you get one. I always hate it because I get a bruise, etc where they do it. What I get is not a positive reaction, but an irritation to it since I have such sensitive skin.

Daytonite, BSN, RN · Jun 26, 2007

Just get the CXR and get a copy of the written report for your records. It should be good for a year.

missrose · Jun 26, 2007

Thanks! I am not opposed to a chest xray. I just feel they should bend a little since I had a ppd a month ago. Again, thanks for your input.

TazziRN, RN · Jun 26, 2007

The place I started working at today said they would accept a PPD/x-ray report as well as the results of my personal physical if they were done within 6 months. I think a month is awfully short, but each place has its own rules.

What does your agency say about it? Seems kind of silly to require travelers to have more frequent PPDs when you could be traveling every 12 weeks.

mrsalby · Jun 26, 2007

My place of employment sent me immediately down to xray when my result was positive. 15 minutes later at a major university hospital I returned to occupational health with my negative xray report, I was amazed at the efficiency of the service. I dont have to take the PPD ever again and sign the sheet saying I havent had any symptoms. I am currently taking INH so hopefully it wont be a problem down the road. HR should bend if you had the documentation and I am surprised they didnt have an avenue for you to get the xray if possible

good luck

TrudyRN · Jun 26, 2007

You don't say whether you gave them written documentation or not. With written proof, they should have let you in.

Without it, they did right. They have rules and requirements they must follow and could be in trouble if they don't.

If you want the job, comply. If not, you don't have to. I wish you well.

RNOTODAY, BSN, RN · Jun 26, 2007

My name is Rose. I have been a travel nurse for six years. I love traveling and I have outstanding evaluations from the facilities where I have worked. Today I had an experience that has left me very frustrated and I would appreciate any input or advice: I showed up today for the first day of orientation and was called aside by the nice HR lady who told me my ppd was unacceptable because it was over two weeks old. I had my last ppd exactly one month ago. It was negative. I did experience a 6cm by 3cm reddened painful area, but no induration, so I refused to have the second test, as I'm not too big on having tuberculin protein repeatedly injected under my skin. HR wouldn't bend. I was dismissed. I called my primary care provider and she told me I did the right thing. Unfortunately, I cannot return to work until I have a chest x-ray. Is this right? Why oh why won't they accept my month old negative ppd? I have a shining work record and am really feeling bullied by what I consider to be a ridiculous HR policy. Your thoughts?

Yes, it is. Do they have a policy that requires a 2 step PPD? if so, and you wont have the second one done due to your "reaction"... then you should provide them with a negative chest x ray.... ... I agree with you not wanting to get another, but I can understand the employer wanting either another neg test, or a clean xray.

It absolutely makes sense. How has it been in other facilities you traveled in?

missrose · Jun 26, 2007

You don't say whether you gave them written documentation or not. With written proof, they should have let you in.
Without it, they did right. They have rules and requirements they must follow and could be in trouble if they don't.
If you want the job, comply. If not, you don't have to. I wish you well.

I did have a copy of my ppd from 05/25, signed, dated, a totally acceptable document. The facility is not bending. They demand a ppd placed "less than two weeks from start date." They said "have another ppd before Friday or find employment elsewhere." Yesterday they said they would accept a CXR. Today, they have changed their mind. I need a paycheck, so I am going to have another ppd placed today. Bummer.

missrose · Jun 26, 2007

The place I started working at today said they would accept a PPD/x-ray report as well as the results of my personal physical if they were done within 6 months. I think a month is awfully short, but each place has its own rules.
What does your agency say about it? Seems kind of silly to require travelers to have more frequent PPDs when you could be traveling every 12 weeks.

My agency attempted to get the facility to bend, but they won't. And I hadn't thought of that.... what if all facilities had this policy? Yes, we'd need to get a ppd every 12 weeks! Hmm. Apparently they don't need a fabulous nurse all that badly or they would accept my month old document! Thanks for your input!