Physical function test???

[luvmy2angels]

For my new job (that i start Thursday, YEA!!) we are required to have a physical and drug test which is normal, but we also have to have a physical function test. They have you walk on a treadmill and lift weights and some other stuff. When i asked them why they said they want to make sure you are physically fit to meet the demands of the LPN role. I am just praying I don't have to do the treadmill for a half hour!! I'm not the most physically fit person and don't think it would go over to well if i pass out!!! LOL!! Anyone else have to do this for thier job?? This is at a LTC facility.

[meownsmile, BSN, RN]

UGHH,, havent heard of them doing this before. I would imagine they are looking to see you have the minimum adjility and stamina, but this is something else i see them as taking farther. Does this also mean if you pass their test you can work but also means the insurance company can decide they are going to sanction your health benefits if you arent able to meet their minimum requirements? I think things like this are very touchy and i think i would find out who has access to any of that information before i would take any fitness test.

[luvmy2angels]

I didn't think about the insurance. I have insurance through my hubby's employer and declined the insurance my employer had offered. I'll ask them about that though when i go in. Thanks!!

[sanctuary, BSN, MSN, RN]

Well, I had the most complete physical of my life when I went to work for a County clinic. Treadmill, carrying 50 lbs up a stairway, eye test, hearing teat, standing and lying spine films, as well as the p in a cup, CXR, & routine b/p, vs, finger stick. When I said that I was impressed with how thorough the PE for a clinic nurse was, the nurse replied, "Clinic nurse? We thought you were hiring on as a deputy sheriff!." Most are not that complete, but many places are trying to avoid being stuck for a big workman's comp claim on an existing problem.

[MU/WVUGRADRN]

This started me wondering: I once worked with an LPN who was an amputee. Her left arm was amputated mid shaft forearm. I had my doubts, but she could work circles around other nurses. I was amazed at what she could do. Her abilities impressed me. I never looked at her as anything less than a competent colleague. There were some things I knew she would need help with, but that was true with a lot of nurses; even the ones who were not "disabled". My question: what would the ADA say if this person is denied a job because she could not do all of the physical function testing but had performed well enough to make it through LPN school?

[Tweety, BSN, RN]

A friend just started work at a hospital that did this. I don't remember if they had her walk on a treadmill. But she had to prove she could lift the minimum requirements and bend over and touch her toes and stuff like that. Kind of makes sense.

My employer doesn't do this. Recently they hired a nurse with a bad back, who of course hurt her back on Day #2. I feel this nurse committed fraud when she said she was physically fit because she lied on her application. She told me when I was orienting her (I really need surgery on my back and I can't wait until my insurance kicks in. But in the meantime I can't lift anything.).

They are trying to avoid people like the above, and it's too bad they can't take people at their word.