So, I've been unemployed while going to school. I just got my surgery date a week or two ago, but I applied for a job before that. I had the interview yesterday. I got a call today that they intend on hiring me and putting me to work this weekend. I know that I can't perform some of the job functions (I'd be a home health CNA) after surgery. So how do I tell them this? I don't want to tell them it's an elective surgery, because they'll just say cancel it and work. Can I lie and say gallbladder or something? What other abdominal surgeries have roughly the same recovery time?

So, I've been unemployed while going to school. I just got my surgery date a week or two ago, but I applied for a job before that. I had the interview yesterday. I got a call today that they intend on hiring me and putting me to work this weekend. I know that I can't perform some of the job functions (I'd be a home health CNA) after surgery. So how do I tell them this? I don't want to tell them it's an elective surgery, because they'll just say cancel it and work. Can I lie and say gallbladder or something? What other abdominal surgeries have roughly the same recovery time?

Losing weight quickly makes you at higher risk for gallbladder issues, so I'd save that one in case you need it later. However, most obese people have a hiatal hernia due to the increased abdominal pressure we have. I'd tell them you're having a laparoscopic hernia repair to address gastric reflux issues. My surgeon said not to lift anything heavier than 10 lbs. for six weeks after surgery. But I carried a 40 lb. bag of dog food without a problem a month out.

But do you want to work for a company that provides health care to others but who would be insensitive to your healthcare needs? Just wondering...

I don't know much about the company. I'm hoping they'll still hire me even knowing that I'll be having surgery and have to take time off so soon after starting. I just feel that I shouldn't have to tell them the exact procedure I'm having. Thank you for your reply.

I do not think they are allowed to ask you what kind of surgery you are having! Suffice it to say tell them you can not start till such and such date due to an already scheduled surgery. I know in Canada that the company can get their fingers smacked if they ask what your surgery is for. I am not fully sure on the rules for the US but I am sure they would be similar.

Most places are sensitive to vacations and surgeries that are pre planned prior to being hired.

I would be honest and tell them that you are having surgery on such and such and that you intend on needing a week off and upon returing will not be able to lift for another few weeks. Honesty is best.

Now, the law states that you DO NOT have to tell them what the surgery is for, unless you want to. Just tell them it is personal and that you don't want to discuss it.

But, be honest!

I got approved two days after starting at my job, I was told that I couldn't take time off for 90 days and setup the surgery for beyond that point. I don't think you have to tell them what kind of surgery but you should tell them you need to have one and ask them for their input, in my case it was please schedule it after 90 days.

I guess it depends on the company but I know if I tried to have the surgery in the first 90 days I wouldn't have a job.

Honesty is best, I would also look into Family Medical Leave Act and see if that applies in your situation.

Thanks for your responses. I did tell them about the surgery today. They did ask what type, and I told them. They are hiring me anyway, I start Monday!!