Insights into the Pre-Employment Physical- What to Expect and How It Affects Your Job Prospects

What happens at a pre employment physical?

A pre employment physical, also known as a pre-employment medical examination, is a standard procedure conducted on potential employees before they are offered a job. This examination is designed to ensure that candidates are physically and mentally fit for the job they are applying for. In this article, we will discuss the various aspects of what happens during a pre employment physical.

Firstly, the candidate is required to provide their personal medical history and any previous health issues they may have had. This information helps the healthcare provider to better understand the candidate’s health status and any potential risks associated with the job. The medical history form is typically filled out at the beginning of the examination.

Next, the healthcare provider will conduct a physical examination. This examination includes checking vital signs such as blood pressure, heart rate, and respiratory rate. The provider will also inspect the candidate’s general appearance, including skin, hair, and nails, to identify any signs of illness or infection.

A comprehensive review of the candidate’s eyes, ears, nose, and throat will follow. This may include vision tests, hearing tests, and an examination of the candidate’s sinuses and throat. Additionally, the healthcare provider will assess the candidate’s musculoskeletal system, checking for any signs of pain, swelling, or limited mobility.

In some cases, the pre employment physical may also include a series of medical tests, such as blood and urine tests. These tests can help identify any underlying health conditions that may impact the candidate’s ability to perform the job. For example, a blood test can reveal if the candidate has any abnormalities in their blood count, liver function, or kidney function.

Another important aspect of the pre employment physical is the assessment of the candidate’s fitness for the job. This involves evaluating the candidate’s physical abilities and endurance, especially if the job requires heavy lifting, prolonged standing, or other physically demanding tasks. The healthcare provider may ask the candidate to perform certain exercises or movements to assess their strength, flexibility, and overall fitness level.

Lastly, the healthcare provider will review the findings of the examination and medical tests with the candidate. If any health concerns are identified, the provider will discuss them with the candidate and may recommend further treatment or follow-up. The results of the pre employment physical are then forwarded to the employer, who will use this information to make an informed decision about the candidate’s suitability for the job.

In conclusion, a pre employment physical is a comprehensive examination that evaluates a candidate’s health and fitness for a job. By understanding what happens during this process, candidates can better prepare for the examination and ensure that they are in the best possible condition to secure their desired position.