Need some advice wrt returning to work/secondment/sickness (nhs)

[mosschops30]

This is my 2nd week of sickness now, i have 4 weeks note from doctor thats states i must not do any manual handling. I cannot do my job (itu nurse) without manual handling so despite telling my boss i would go in nd help with reception duties or imilar she hasnt asked me to.

I have had an MRI scan which shows degeneration at c5/6 c6/7, its causing some pressure on my spinal cord which is causing pins and needles in my fingers, clumsiness and neck pain keading to headaches. He also thinks i have cervicl spondolosis, which can also be exascerbated by manual handling. I am also seeing an osteopath twice a week at the moment because the pain and spasms are so bad. Am taking diclofenac, cocodamol, tramadol and diazepam which along with constant pain are leaving me incapable of doing much.

I just dont know what to do, my doctor is quite happy for me to be staying off, but i dont want to stay off sick, i dont know if i can transfer to another area which is less heavy, or whether thats only offered to those on long term sick. Ive applied to do my health visiting course, but that wont start until sept if i get on it, and i darent tell work because my boss will be awful.

Does anyone know what my first port of call is is, rep? Union? Boss? (she will be awful though)

Any advice would be great

Bump anyone?

I would try the Trust's Occy Health department first :)

Good idea, just wondering if i need a referral or can self refer to occy health?

We can self refer, although these days a 4 week sick note would be an automatic referral anyway :(

Our Trust also gives us access to a 24 hour helpline for advice on these things but not sure how useful it would be.

Agree about the visit to Occy Health. Does your sick note specify that you are able to do light duties? If so, I think you do need to speak to your line manager about what duties you can do. They should be pleased about this and facilitate you doing back.

Have sent you a message.

My note states i must avoid manual handling for 4 weeks. Its impossible to do my job without it. Plus i am bending, stretching, leaning, and standing for 12 hours. I cannot expect my colleagues to roll my patient.

I am going to ring my union tomorrow and get some advice, then see what they advise, manager or occ health.

Thanks for allsuggestions