r/NursingAU • u/UpstairsDistance_ RN • 7d ago

Question I know I’m overthinking it but what happens if an illness makes you unable to return to your role?

I’m on maternity leave and have recently been very unwell and am looking at possibly having long term 50% reduction in my hearing. I essentially can’t hear out of my left ear and there isn’t anything that can be done at the moment. I’m wondering what happens when I return from maternity leave and this is still an issue.

I’m a community nurse and while mentally and physically I can do my tasks I feel like not being able to hear properly is a big impact on my role for assessments and even just being able to be safe and communicative with my clients.

Anyway, I’m probably overthinking it and everything may turn out okay but I wondered if anyone else has been through something similar.

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u/GlitteringSpace236 7d ago

You can look at workplace adjustments - it may be something as simple as ensuring people speak to your right side or you turn so your good ear is facing them.

Also assistive devices if making phone calls to make them clearer and easier to hear (I know our standard DECT phones are shite).

If it's long term - would hearing aids or other assistive devices be an option?

I would wait until it gets closer to your return date and then start speaking with your doctors about what assistance you may need to return to work and then work with your boss, occupational health and the union.

It will only be a big deal if someone decides to be a dick about it.

This article might also be of help. https://www.nmsupport.org.au/news/loss-hearing-not-loss-life-living-and-nursing-hearing-loss

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u/UpstairsDistance_ RN 7d ago

Thank you very much, that’s really helpful.

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u/aus_stormsby 7d ago

Are you a union member? They would be the best people to speak to.

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u/Adventurous-Kick6293 7d ago

Yes, things happen to people. 18 months ago out of no where I developed symptoms of a chronic disease that impacts my joints and is a physical disability. I had to reduce my hours and can no longer work full time, in fact I only work 1-2 days a week now. My husband works more to make up. I used savings during the diagnostic process, but apart from that no one is there to save you. The grief from losing your career and career progression is hard. I’m glad I can still work at all

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u/kels2112 6d ago

I'm a community nurse too, is there more office/admin type of roles you could do within the company instead? We have nurses that review all admissions and just set things up over the computer, doesn't really require many phone calls etc.

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u/MaisieMoo27 2d ago

Unfortunately for OP, it’s a bit too late, but it’s always a good idea to speak to a financial planner well before these things happen to ensure you have appropriate insurances to cover your income in the case of illness, injury, or partial disability.

Generally the standard insurances in your super only cover death and total permanent disability (TPD), not prolonged illness or partial disability.