I'm starting an ADN program in the fall & am getting all my ducks in a row for the start of classes (e.g. drug testing, physical exam, etc.). When I originally applied for this program, the head of the Dept. told me that they recommended, but did not currently require that ADN students get the Hep B vaccine. At orientation, she reiterated and said that now we all would be required to get the Hep B vaccine for clinicals.
This is a concern for me because my older brother took 2 of the 3 Hep B shots in medical school, and his life/health have been literally ruined as a result. He had a severe autoimmune reaction that still affects him 10+ years later (similar to CFS, but also includes hypotension and other problems).
My primary care MD was really no help on this matter (pretty much told me that "only God knows if you'll get a reaction" ) So I'm faced with the choice of whether or not to do it.
Can anyone advise as to what you might do in my situation? I don't want to get the DISEASE either, but I am really very stressed out about making this choice. Does anyone know whether I have a right to refuse the vaccine as a student and/or healthcare worker?
Thank you so much for the replies & understanding. I am frustrated because I am not trying to do something deviant, or try to get out of work, just have a concern about my health that I think is legitimate. But so far doctors & the nursing program itself have been totally unhelpful and not very understanding. I would in fact RATHER take it because I am absolutely pro-vaccine, I'm just a little scared of making a choice that *might* seriously jeopardize my health.
Someone raised a good point that if I do not make this decision now I will have to make it in the future when I go to work. That worries me! What I'm wondering is whether you cannot sign a waiver as a healthcare worker to an immunization. The reason we have to have the shot for school is because of clinicals (hospitals requiring it) which I would think would be the same as hospital employees. But perhaps a hospital can, by law, require certain immunizations for employees?
This situation really does suck...I feel like I'm between a rock & a hard place & wish it would just go away!
) So I'm faced with the choice of whether or not to do it. 
KAT NC
25 Posts
prmenrs,
That is such as sweet picture you have showing. Sorry to interrupt the thread I just had to tell you that.