Will my disability stop me?

[Mariafam]

Hello all ,

I am looking to go back to school to pursue a nursing career and I have a physical disability. Will this hold me back from being successful in the nursing world? Should I reconsider my dream of nursing?

Any comments and advice will be helpful.

Thank you

- Mariarose F

[VivaLasViejas, ASN, RN]

Hello there, and welcome to Allnurses! We're glad you've joined us.

A lot depends on the type and severity of your condition. The best person to advise you is your healthcare provider. Some people can do amazing things with a disability, and with determination and good care, they can be successful as a nurse.

Good luck in whatever you decide to do. Viva

[tsomargotte]

It does indeed depend on your disability. If your disability means that your co-workers must continually compensate for your inability to perform your job duties, then I would say, yes, it is a hindrance to doing that specific job. If your disability makes you a difficult person to be around, then, yes, I would suggest conquering that issue before you decide to enter any workplace.

I've worked in a facility for over ten years, and for ten years I've had to help a nurse quite a bit. A few other nurses as well as myself have carried her heavy supplies, done most, if not all of the dressing changes she was supposed to do, and have run to do her codes for her. However, usually, if there's anything that takes swiftness or simply normal strength or speed, I am the chosen one to do these things as most people do not like her. She becomes quite spiteful and and fault-finding towards other nurses probably as a way to draw attention from her own inabiltity/disability. At times, it takes the time and energy of fellow nurses to the extent that it hinders performing their own job duties jeopardizing their own performance, their own job security.

I can honestly say that only because of the help that others have given her, has she kept her job. So, if you do fit her profile, yes, this will affect your job performance, and the happiness and health and job security of those around you if they decide to help you or are asked to continually help you.

This is hard to hear, I know. But the truth can be harsh, at times. Yes, I still help this nurse, and at times, others still do. But we all secretly pray that she'll go on disability.

I wish you the best.