Can a nurse be discriminated with HEPC or SVR

I am 7 weeks until graduation.  This has started to enter my mind. I have been negative since 2002.

[Trinity4]

http://www.medhelp.org/posts/Hepatitis-C/what-are-possible-careers-for-chronic-hepatitis-c-/show/555636

by Douglas Dieterich, MD, Jun 27, 2008 10:43AM
To: June6thHepatitis C testing is not done on healthcare workers, but hepatitis B testing is to ensure that we are all vaccinated or have antibodies. Because of the ADA( Americans with Disabilities Act) no one can prevent you from practicing your profession if you have an infection unless you are giving to your patients. One of the risks for acquiring HCV is from needlesticks as a healthcare worker so a lot of us are infected and employers cant ask about it unless there is an epidemic caused by you! However that being said if you have HCV you should definitely get evaluated and treated! Good luck! DTD

[RobertBeWell]

No. You cannot.

[tashka]

Just don't mention this to your employer or anybody else for that matter. Don't talk about your hepatitis C, treatment, status, or anything of that nature. I can not stress this enough.

Several times in my life I got in big trouble because of my talking about things (not hepatitis C related, fortunately). Silence is a great thing. Once the words are said, they can not be taken back, no matter how much you try. Also remember that people who you trust and consider friends can reverse their stance instantly, become your worst enemies, disclose your secrets and ruin your life. Do not volunteer sensitive information.

I don't think any blood tests are required for employment as a nurse. Even if you had active hepatitis C with viral load, you are not a danger to anyone if you follow appropriate precautions. Enjoy your career. Congratulations on upcoming graduation.

[blondie717]

Im so happy to hear that you did Tx and are still SRV nearly 9 yrs later? I would not worry about being discriminated against since, you dont have to disclose it. I would worry about health insurance. life insurance and loan insurance;s since they often ask questions like do you have hiv, cancer etc. I cant remember if they asked about  hapatitis. I believe that people often gossip and by disclosing to emp. health insurance packets, that lets your Co workers see your status. I hope your son is ok. I think I would ask another blood test be done on him. to make sure he is still. ok....Life insurance co. sometimes have people take blood test.