Opportunity in Oncology for a Survivor?

Trauma Columnist · Aug 24, 2014

Apply....there's nothing wrong or problematic that I see.

what issue concerns you?

monkeyhq · Aug 24, 2014

Should I mention in my cover letter that I was a patient, should I not? Should I mention in interview, or should I not?

I have no experience or teaching for the best protocol for this particular issue from the employer perspective. I have tossed this about in my head for hours.

If I mention that I feel my personal experience as a cancer patient is a valuable component of my approach to patient care, what is the HR manager likely to see: a) potential for future absence because I had cancer, too personally connected, bad employee investment, or b) a benefit to understanding the emotional and physical status of patients, their concerns, treatments, care, etc.

I feel like I should mention something about having been a patient so that it doesn't seem like I am not being forthcoming (should someone recognize my name). It is definitely going to come out, should I make it to the status of 'employee'. I just want to do everything I can -- in the most professional way -- to get my foot in the door for the interview.

In any normal circumstance, I would not mention my personal health history to my employer. My current employers do not know. But this oncology opening is unique because I was a patient at this treatment center.

I could see my health history work for me, or against me. As I have never been an employer, I don't know which is more likely, or how to begin with the issue.

Ruby Vee, BSN · Aug 25, 2014

Here's something to consider: I worked oncology as a relatively new grad. About a year in, I got cancer. I got treated quickly, did well, didn't miss much work. But about two years later, I encountered two patients who had been diagnosed with the same type of cancer about the same time I was . . . and they were both dying. I had emotional difficulty dealing with the whole issue, and within six weeks had transferred out of my job and into the ICU.

If you've got good emotional support and have considered your possible emotional reaction to dealing with patients with the same type of cancer as you had and aren't doing as well, or had a recurrance or were in the hospital at the same time as you . . . go for it. But if you don't have good support or haven't considered your possible reaction to these things, it's maybe not such a good idea.

monkeyhq · Aug 25, 2014

Miss Ruby, thank you for the reply and the solid advice.

As a survivor, I know there will be days where it may be very difficult. I still have days, even though I am past my 5 year marker (triple neg BC, BRCA1 del), where I have a good cry. I lost three friends (same type of cancer) in the first three years post treatment. Two were my age, one was 10 years younger, all had school age children. The psychological impact was intense. At the same time, it reaffirmed my own choices*.

I do have an amazing support system in my mother (also a survivor), and my family. I still make it to at least 3 support group meetings a year. It is not always easy, but five years out, I understand that it will never be something I can just tuck away forever. It is always going to be there, and I will always have some tough days.

The opening with the oncology center is not in the infusion therapy room. As the opening is entry level, I would be working in the exam rooms and doing everything except pushing chemo. If I handle well the emotional aspect, there is the option of moving into the infusion room (one year in the exam rooms is required) if I choose. It really is an ideal opportunity, and I am resolved to do well, and be well. I do understand that reality could be different than what I anticipate, but I won't know unless I try, and I really believe oncology is where I will be most helpful as a nurse.

I still don't know how I should approach the application process regarding my status as a survivor and patient at this center?

*my BC was discovered while undergoing an elective double mast due to BRCA1 status; tested for BRCA due to strong family history

OCNRN63, RN · Aug 25, 2014

I worked for a while after my treatments, but one thing I wasn't prepared for was how I felt dealing with rude patients and family. Many of the patients were very kind and understanding, but some of the new ones were less than kind. I had some problems after the chemo which made me a little slower than usual when running for blankets, drinks, etc. Sometimes I would have to sit down while doing my computer documentation. I actually had some people get impatient with this. Inside, I was thinking, "Can't you see I'm struggling and trying my best?"

I eventually had to stop working because of my health. All in all, I was glad I tried to work, even though it didn't last. I couldn't have aasked for better co-workers. They supported me every step of the way, and continue to do so.

monkeyhq · Aug 25, 2014

I worked for a while after my treatments, but one thing I wasn't prepared for was how I felt dealing with rude patients and family.

I worked in government accounting (tax collection) prior to nursing. I know all about rude people. After years in public service, I learned a few skills that might transition well to dealing with patient frustration.

Do you have any advice on my original post regarding what I should consider in so far as what information (if any) I should include in my cover letter? Or what to consider when speaking about my history in interview?

OCNRN63, RN · Aug 26, 2014

If it were me, I would hold off mentioning it. Employers these days can be very leery about any perceived issue. As long as you're healthy, I would focus on the other things that drew you to oncology. If you feel you must say something, keep it brief. Focus on positives.

I'm sorry my first response was not to your liking.

monkeyhq · Aug 26, 2014

If it were me, I would hold off mentioning it. Employers these days can be very leery about any perceived issue. As long as you're healthy, I would focus on the other things that drew you to oncology. If you feel you must say something, keep it brief. Focus on positives.

I'm sorry my first response was not to your liking.

Oh no! Your response was very, very helpful! I hadn't considered the reactions of patients. I was just stating that working in government exposed me to a lot of irate people (nothing makes people angrier than taxes), and that I have enough scars to deflect the abuse, lol. I am very grateful for your reply. Patient angst was truly not an issue that had even crossed my mind. I am a relatively new nurse, so please forgive my ignorance.

And thank you for the solid advice and response regarding not laying everything out there at the beginning. I can certainly say something about having a 'unique understanding' in my cover letter without putting out there that I was a patient. That fact will come out anyway if I am granted an interview, so I appreciate your insight and wisdom.

I've never applied for a position with a place where I was a patient. And they didn't really discuss such issues in nursing school. I am very grateful for all of your advice. I am so sorry if you thought your reply was not appreciated. I value the opinions of seasoned nurses very much, and I learn something new every day. Thank you for your help!

OCNRN63, RN · Aug 26, 2014

I think it’s a good idea at least in the beginning to wait until you go into too much detail regarding your medical history. In some respects it could turn out to be a plus for you, esp. down the road. You don’t want to give them the impression that your only reason for applying there is due to some unresolved issues related to your treatment.

If you go about it wisely, I think you could wind up being a major asset to that unit. And thanks for clarifying the misunderstanding.

monkeyhq · Aug 26, 2014

Thank you for the great advice! I just finished my cover letter without mention of it, but did mention 'unique insights' to patient care.

I am very grateful! Thank you so much for your help.

And sorry about the misunderstanding...I have really unclear 'chemo-brain' days still, lol.

OCNRN63, RN · Aug 26, 2014

Thank you for the great advice! I just finished my cover letter without mention of it, but did mention 'unique insights' to patient care.
I am very grateful! Thank you so much for your help.
And sorry about the misunderstanding...I have really unclear 'chemo-brain' days still, lol.

I can totally sympathize with the chemobrain issue.