Planning for a challenging, meaningful career is entirely within
the realm of possibility for many people with CF. It will involve asking
yourself basic questions such as what your interests are and the experience and
schooling you'll need to do the job. Beyond that however, you will need to do an
honest assessment of the state of your health, and whether it will limit your
choices.
Key issues to consider before deciding on a job or occupation
Can you work full time?
How physically demanding is the job?
How flexible is the job? For example, would your employer give you needed time off for hospitalization or home IV treatments? Also, check if there is potential for reducing your hours if your health demanded it.
What benefits does the employer offer? Keep in mind that having CF means that you will need coverage for your medication and sick days.
Would the severity of your cough affect your job? This could be a problem in the food industry, or if you have a job talking on the telephone all day.
Will you need to travel or relocate to another city or town? In addition to moving away from the safety net or your support group, you may also find that a new location doesn't have the same resources for health care.
Facing environmental issues
It is well known that certain environments can be harmful to the lungs, especially if you have an underlying condition like asthma or CF. Therefore, it is extremely important to consider the environment you will be working in. Your dream job can quickly turn into a nightmare if it affects your health. Carefully go through the following checklist before selecting a workplace:
Will you be exposed to smoke fumes, vapors, mists or sprays? These can be found in many different occupations, like welding or bartending. And don't forget to check out the lunchroom to make sure that it's smoke free.
Is there dust? This could come from many sources. It
could be mineral dust from rock sources such as those in mining or sandblasting.
Dust could also come from living material like plants, animals, and
microorganisms. This type of dust, (which includes spores, fungi and other tiny
organisms) may be inhaled in occupations dealing with plants, trees, animals,
and crops.
Is there a workplace standard in the occupation? For
example, those doing auto body work with fiberglass must take precautions to
avoid inhalation of fiberglass, because the fibers can become deposited in the
lungs. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has a workplace
standard for fiberglass safety. (Note: Joan is checking for another work place
safety source)
Are special masks and filters available for
occupations where inhalation of harmful particles is known?
What are your chances of contacting a cold or flu in
the work setting? Daycares and schools, for instance, are known for spreading
germs. Likewise, different kinds of bacteria are often found in hospital
settings. You will also need to think of the germs and bacteria you may be
carrying, and whether you may be a danger to people with low immunity such as
candidates for transplants. By the same token, you will also have to consider
whether some infected people are a danger to you.
Evaluating your job choices
Evaluating your job choices in terms of your own health limitations and the work setting can be overwhelming. It's important that you discuss your choices with your physician and CF team. Above all, try to be realistic without getting discouraged. It may take some time, but with a little research and an honest assessment of your strengths and weaknesses, you could find yourself doing a job you love with co-workers who support you.
