Taking off for illness

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Hi everyone

I have about 3 yrs experience working as a RN, BSN. I have spent some of that time in acute care but the majority is in long term care, with Director of Nursing included. I stepped down from my position of DON recently due to health issues. I have been diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes and already have some kidney problems as a result. I became very ill and needed to be off work so often that it was impossible to keep up with my responsibilities. I have been at home recovering very well since the end of October but still have some issues with my kidneys and my doctor feels it would be unwise to return to work full time right now. I agree but also feel my career will suffer if I stay out of nursing for too long. Any ideas? I have been thinking maybe I could work as weekend RN coverage at a nursing home or part time home health. Of course I would disclose that I have health issues if asked, but should I bring it up otherwise? I am worried that if I work too much I will not get better and if I don't work at all my career will suffer. Please any advice would be greatly appreciated.

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Specializes in Clinical Research, Outpt Women's Health.
Hi everyone

I have about 3 yrs experience working as a RN, BSN. I have spent some of that time in acute care but the majority is in long term care, with Director of Nursing included. I stepped down from my position of DON recently due to health issues. I have been diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes and already have some kidney problems as a result. I became very ill and needed to be off work so often that it was impossible to keep up with my responsibilities. I have been at home recovering very well since the end of October but still have some issues with my kidneys and my doctor feels it would be unwise to return to work full time right now. I agree but also feel my career will suffer if I stay out of nursing for too long. Any ideas? I have been thinking maybe I could work as weekend RN coverage at a nursing home or part time home health. Of course I would disclose that I have health issues if asked, but should I bring it up otherwise? I am worried that if I work too much I will not get better and if I don't work at all my career will suffer. Please any advice would be greatly appreciated.

I would not bring it up if the job you are applying is one that you can perform without those issues causing problems. Good luck!

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Specializes in retired LTC.
I would not bring it up if the job you are applying is one that you can perform without those issues causing problems. Good luck!
Ditto!

If questioned, explain that you just wanted a change from a highly stressful position for a while.

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Specializes in critical care, ER,ICU, CVSURG, CCU.

i agree with the above, and best wishes to you:yes:

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Specializes in Gerontology, Med surg, Home Health.

I was out of nursing for 10 years bringing up my kids. It didn't hurt my career.

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Thank you all for your replies and advice. I am actually doing much better now and I feel that I can perform my duties without any issues. I have been to 2 interviews and have been asked why I quit my last job. I told them that management was not a good fit for me and didn't mention that I got sick......however when they called for a reference I am wondering if my former employer mentioned anything about it because I never heard back from either interview. I wonder if I should leave the last job off my resume?

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Specializes in Geriatric Psychiatry.

Glad you are feeling better and goodluck with the job hunt!! I dont know about leaving employment hx off your resune, hopefully they dont discriminate due to your illness!!

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