Wearing a mask during clinicals?

Published

Hi everyone,

I was accepted into the nursing program for my school starting next month & was wondering if you guys could shed some light on something for me.

I went a couple weeks ago to my doctor to get my titers & tdap, I had planned to get my flu shot at the same time but they were out so they said they'd give me a call when they got some in. Well they called me Friday to tell me the had me scheduled to come in this Tuesday to get one & I was so relieved to finally get it out of the way since it's the only thing I'm missing.

However, I was talking to my mother about school today & told her about my plans to go get my flu shot Tuesday when she informed me that I had a reaction to it when I was in elementary, and I broke out in hives, as well as had some crazy swelling where the shot was given. Since it was over 20 years ago I don't remember it but now I'm worried.

My school has the option of wearing a mask if we have an allergy to the shot as long as our physician writes a letter stating that's the reason why we can't get it. So my question is: Has anyone had a similar experience where they had to wear a mask? Since it's my only option at this point then I'm between a rock & hard place, but was wondering if it at all affected your ability to do your clinical's?

Thanks in advance!

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Complex pedi to LTC/SA & now a manager.

What does your physician recommend?

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in OR, Nursing Professional Development.

Agree with JustBeachy, this is something you need to discuss with your healthcare provider.

As for wearing a mask, it's actually my facility's policy that flu shots are mandatory unless there is a documented allergy or contraindication that is provided by the employee's health care provider and approved by the employee health nurse. Those who are unable to get the shot are actually required to wear a mask at all times when within 10 feet of another person, whether it's coworker, visitor, or patient. Totally doable but not always the most comfortable and patients do ask why the employee is wearing a mask.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I was worried that she would choose not to give it to me since I had the reaction. :unsure:

Thank you guys though, I'll definitely talk to her about it tomorrow!

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Join the Discussion