Introduction
Before being hired, job applicants are often required to undergo a pre-employment physical. This type of medical exam is designed to determine if an individual is physically capable of performing job duties. Pre-employment physicals are typically conducted by a licensed medical professional and involve a variety of tests and assessments. In this article, we will explore the reasons why someone might fail a pre-employment physical and provide tips on how to prepare for the exam.
Common Reasons for Failing a Pre-Employment Physical
There are several reasons why an individual may fail a pre-employment physical. Some of the most common reasons include:
High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a condition where the pressure in your arteries is higher than it should be. It can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. If an individual has uncontrolled high blood pressure, they may fail a pre-employment physical.
Obesity
Obesity is a condition where an individual has excessive body fat. It can increase the risk of a variety of health conditions, including heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and some types of cancer. If an individual’s body mass index (BMI) is too high, they may fail the physical.
Medical Conditions like Diabetes, Heart Disease, and Asthma
Medical conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and asthma can impact an individual’s ability to perform certain job duties. If these conditions are uncontrolled, an individual may fail the physical.
Poor Eyesight or Hearing
Some job duties may require good eyesight or hearing. If an applicant has poor eyesight or hearing, they may fail the physical.
Less Commonly Known Reasons for Failing a Pre-Employment Physical
While the reasons listed above are relatively well-known, there are also some less commonly known reasons why an individual may fail a pre-employment physical. These include:
Side Effects of Medication
Some medications may have side effects that can impact an individual’s ability to perform job duties. For example, a medication may cause drowsiness or impaired cognitive function.
Substance Abuse History
If an individual has a history of substance abuse, they may fail a pre-employment physical. Employers may be concerned about the individual’s ability to perform job duties safely and effectively.
Poor Mental Health
Mental health conditions like depression and anxiety can impact an individual’s ability to perform job duties. If the condition is uncontrolled, an individual may fail the physical.
Tips for Preparing for a Pre-Employment Physical
While there is no way to guarantee that you will pass a pre-employment physical, there are some steps you can take to increase your chances of success:
Maintain a Healthy Diet and Regular Exercise
Eating a healthy diet and getting regular exercise can improve your overall health and wellness. This can help reduce the risk of conditions like high blood pressure, obesity, and type 2 diabetes.
Get Enough Sleep Prior to the Exam
Getting enough sleep the night before the exam can help ensure that you are well-rested and alert during the physical.
Review Your Medical History and Be Honest with the Doctor
Be sure to review your medical history and disclose any relevant information to the doctor conducting the exam. This will help ensure that they have a complete picture of your health.
Handling Pre-Employment Physicals with Chronic Conditions
If you have a chronic medical condition, such as diabetes or asthma, there are some steps you can take to handle pre-employment physicals:
Communicate with the Employer About Your Condition
Be upfront and honest about your medical condition with your prospective employer. They may be willing to make reasonable accommodations during the exam.
Ask for Reasonable Accommodations During the Exam
If you have a medical condition that could impact the physical exam, ask your doctor or the medical professional conducting the exam about potential accommodations. For example, if you have mobility issues, they may be able to make adjustments to the testing procedures.
What Employers Look for in a Pre-Employment Physical
Employers may look for certain red flags during a pre-employment physical, such as uncontrolled medical conditions or a history of drug use. However, they are also looking for overall health and wellness. They want to ensure that the individuals they hire are physically capable of performing job duties and will be able to do so safely and effectively.
Personal Account of a Failed Pre-Employment Physical
One individual who failed a pre-employment physical due to high blood pressure shared their experience. They emphasized the importance of taking care of your health and being proactive about managing medical conditions. They also advised being honest with the medical professional conducting the exam and following all instructions carefully.
Conclusion
Pre-employment physicals are an important part of the hiring process. They help ensure that job candidates are physically capable of performing job duties safely and effectively. While there is no way to guarantee that you will pass a pre-employment physical, there are steps you can take to increase your chances of success. By prioritizing overall health and wellness, being honest with your doctor, and following all instructions carefully, you can help ensure a successful career.
