Pre nursing physical

[Kitkat1212]

I am having a physical done in a few weeks as a requirement for my nursing school program. I am worried because I have had low vitamin B and iron levels. Are blood levels checked in a normal physical? I haven't had a physical in years, so i don't remember what they look for or check. I am afraid that if my blood levels come back low, that I might not be allowed into nursing school. Anyone have details on what their physical involved? Thanks!

P. S. I am terrified that I may have to undress for the physical, and I have serious problems undressing in front of people, even for doctors.

[Proton]

Typically blood test aren't taken in physicals.

My weight, respirations/lungs, vision and hearing were checked. I think that was pretty much it.

[Miss.LeoRN]

I didn't have a blood test for my physical, however my school does also require us to get a CBC. There was no need for me to get naked at all, it was just an assessment. My NP checked heart, bp, lungs, had me stand and do a few bends and turns... checked my spine.. that was it. If your DR wants you naked, don't be afraid to ask WHY and tell them you are uncomfortable with that.

Also I wouldn't be worried about low vitamin or iron... at most they would tell you to take a daily vitamin. I highly doubt they'd reject you from school because of it.

[mrsboots87]

It should be just like a sports physical. If blood is drawn, the lab results are private info and cant be shared with your school anyway. Your school should outline what they need released from the physical with you. It will likely be something along the lines of height, weight, past health history, any physical conditions you are aware of that may impact your ability to function in clinical, and they will likely check reflexes, posture, your spine, stuff like that to see if you are fit to function in clinicals. Having low vit/min shouldn't matter. The most I could see happening is that they may tell you take some supplements. There were people in my nursing class with all kinds of health "issues".

Did your school provide a form for your physician to sign stating you are fit for nursing school? All they want is that signed, unless they give you something stating they want other information.

[NurseSN45696]

Typically blood test aren't taken in physicals.

My weight, respirations/lungs, vision and hearing were checked. I think that was pretty much it.

same here, minus the hearing test. Just had my physical last week. No blood work.

Now if you have something in your recent medical history that is a red flag the doctor might not be comfortable signing off...say chest pain for example..could be something that requires a cardiac workup. Just an example. If no recent history of you iron levels causing any major issues, I think you'd be ok.

[classicdame, MSN, EdD]

I agree with above posts but would like to add that at some point you need to see a healthcare provider about your possible anemia or whatever. You will need LOTS of energy in nursing school. Would hate for you to have problems when a monthly injection or little pill will fix you right up. Good luck in your career!