What exactly is covered by 'medical conditions that may impact on their ability...

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I'm interested in studying as a mature student(29, would likely be 30-31 by the time I started)to become an Enrolled Nurse in New Zealand, but I cannot find out that exactly is covered by the term 'medical condition that will impact on their ability to practice safely as a nurse'. I have a history of depression(not an issue as long as I take medication, which I do), and there is also the possibility that I may have a mild form of Ehlers Danlos Syndrome, for which I am awaiting a geneticist appointment. I currently work a resthome and these issues don't affect my work, but would they come under the 'medical condition that will impact on their ability to practice safely as a nurse' to bar me from nursing, particularly my history of depression? I have searched for an answer but can't come up with anything one way or another.

I've been interested in taking this path for about 2 years and I'm pretty sure this is what I want to do. Enrolled nursing to start, with the possibility of further study for Registered nursing if I want to go further.

Thanks for any help, I've searched the internet fairly thoroughly without finding an answer and due to the personal nature of my question I don't want to ask anyone at work.

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As long as they dont affect your ability to work they are not a problem.

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I Have Ehlers Danlos hypermoblity type. I have been a nurse for five years. Having EDS should not prevent you from becoming a nurse. You just need to more aware of body mechanics and use braces when needed. Depression is part of this disorder but sometimes by helping others,we help ourselves. Also, with the genetic testing, if you have the same type as me, there is no genetic test. It is only diagnosed by clinical exam. Good luck in school. Nursing is the hardest career you will ever love.

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Specializes in Cath lab, acute, community.

I have epilepsy and still ticked no. Reason being, as long as I sleep and take all my precautions, chances are low. It's simply an indemnity thing.

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