At what point does one know when the time has come to say 'When",and move out of nursing due to disease processes?
I am thinking that with all my arthritis, asthma and Meniere's disease that the time is approaching that I will no longer be able to be a floor nurse. My current job is primarily a desk job, but does require some floor/charge nurse shifts at irregular times. Thise floor nurse shifts nearly do me in. It take 2-3 days to recover from one shift.
I am worried about taking year off to even try to obtain disability (SSDI). I just flat out cant afford it. Even then, it is no guarantee that disability will be approved, so then it may be a much longer time.
I am discouraged right now with my job, with my medical conditions and with the economy/insurance issues we face, that will not allow me to "just quit, take a year off and apply for disability".
Does anyone know if it is true that one HAS to be off work for one year before applying?
Specializes in LTC, assisted living, med-surg, psych.
Esme12 and I both have had bad experiences with trying to get accommodations for our disabilities. And the ADA isn't much of a help when employers have offices full of lawyers who know a million and one ways to get rid of people without incurring the wrath of the feds.
I don't want to discourage you, but you'll want to watch your back and keep your options open. Polish up that resume, put some 'feelers' out, and be ready for anything. Wishing you the very best of luck~
I just thought I'd post that I got a job, working in my wheelchair. It's a desk job and the most awesome thing is that my boss doesn't care when I work. I work until I get tired, then bag up the rest of my work and take it home to finish up after a nap. I'm not saying that to make you want to kill me but to let you know that there are jobs like that out there :) I took a big pay cut for this job but it is still more than disability and there's insurance.
Specializes in Critical Care, ED, Cath lab, CTPAC,Trauma.
I just thought I'd post that I got a job, working in my wheelchair. It's a desk job and the most awesome thing is that my boss doesn't care when I work. I work until I get tired, then bag up the rest of my work and take it home to finish up after a nap. I'm not saying that to make you want to kill me but to let you know that there are jobs like that out there :) I took a big pay cut for this job but it is still more than disability and there's insurance.
I think we have talked before....you are very fortunate. I looked for 3 almost 4 years...exhausted all of our resources. Sometimes you just have to admit defeat.
Specializes in Care Coordination, MDS, med-surg, Peds.
My primary job is basically at a desk with some going out on the units to assess, talk to staff/residents, etc., what the fuss is about is when I am on call, and I may need to come in and work as a Charge nurse. Which is what my Dr isn't wanting me to do.
Right now I am waiting on the Dr to fax a clarification.
I am upset and discouraged today. I know everything will work out for the best, but today, all I see are dark clouds..... >>
Specializes in Care Coordination, MDS, med-surg, Peds.
The Dr. sent a clarification, and, for now, all is ok at work. Work has agreed with the current job limitations, in the hope they are not long term. If long term...I'm not sure what will occur. They agreed, but not without some posturing and grumping. BUT at least its stabale right now.... Any prayers, good thoughts, support, ideas, etc., sent this way will be much appreciated.
I am still considering the disability option.
THANK you all for your support. I know that without it, I would have a tougher time of dealing with all of ths. My famiy is good at supporting me, but know one truly understands unless they have been down this road.
Do you have short term or long term disability through your employer? That could bridge you to SSI.
A good friend had similiar issues. She had to be off for 6 months, was denied and got an attorney. Attorney got 30% of what she would have received from the day she applied.
She can earn up to $800/month to supplement the insurance.
Let the workplace go right ahead and give birth to that cow. Take care of YOURSELF.
Specializes in Care Coordination, MDS, med-surg, Peds.
Saw Rheumy yesterday for results of labs and xrays. Labs ok, again nothing positively positive for RA. The xrays said erosions on ulnar styloid bilaterally and peri-articular osteopenia, both consistent with early RA. Also have achilles and calcaneal enthesopathy.
the Nurse Practitioner said, ok, RA it is and I will check with Dr to see what meds to put you on. After talking with him, the answer is: He doesn't agree with the radiologist, he doesn't think RA, so I'm back at the starting gate, except it is very very clear that I have osteoarthritis everywhere.Unfortunately he did not offer any treatment plans for the OA. I will have a consult for pain clinic, so that may be good.
Sigh..... I just want appropriate treatment and relief.... NOT narcotics, NOT just "live with it".
My PCP has her thinking cap on.... so we shall see.
I'm just frustrated and hurting... I even cried in the Dr's office.... ugh.... Did do more labs. I think I've been tested for everything that could cause arthritis in the world...hummm don't see one drawn for beri-beri, or ebola, but who knows... might be next.....
the saga continues..........................................
How frustrating for you! I would have cried, too. I hope they come up with a plan that will help with the pain. I agree that I wouldn't want narcotics and "just live with it" is not a plan.
Whatever you do please do not use a national franchise social security advocate no matter how glamorous their tv adds look!
Go local get someone you can sit down with in person and ask questions. I did become disabled due to a crippling case of parkinsonism that had me hunched over and couldn't lift my legs to walk nor hold much of anything even my cell was painful to hold for more than 2 minutes and I was easily fatigued. My Neurologist actually recommended I apply and gladly filled out my forms.
I went with the BIG national franchise that advertises on tv. Staff was rude and I never actually met anyone had to do all the "Leg" work myself. May as well have filed on my own. I have since read their reviews and I am not the only one who feels this way.
I know of others that have gone to a local lawyer and much better experience and quicker results. Best to you!
Specializes in Care Coordination, MDS, med-surg, Peds.
Ok, saw my PCP. She reviewed labs, xrays, etc, symptoms, etc and came to the conclusion that the Rheumatologist can'at just "pick and chose what results he wants to." LOL he agreed with all the radiology reports except the line that said Rheumatoid arthritis, even though I have the erosions to prove it. So I have decide to let her treat it. She is competent, having worked with a rheumatologist before and she has RA. She called in a script for Methotrexate that I'll start tomorrow. Finally... now to wait for it to kick in!
VivaLasViejas, ASN, RN
22 Articles; 9,996 Posts
Esme12 and I both have had bad experiences with trying to get accommodations for our disabilities. And the ADA isn't much of a help when employers have offices full of lawyers who know a million and one ways to get rid of people without incurring the wrath of the feds.
I don't want to discourage you, but you'll want to watch your back and keep your options open. Polish up that resume, put some 'feelers' out, and be ready for anything. Wishing you the very best of luck~