Is this ok? I am in California

[rosietoes]

I am off work with several limitations that make it impossible for my employer to accomodate me at this time. The comp MD I am seeing says I am going to be "permanent and stationary" and that I will "not be able to work as a nurse again" doing "traditional" type jobs....ie direct patient care and shifts over 8 hours.
I have started looking for jobs that would fit within my current limitations ie 8 hours a day, no lifting over 20 pounds, no repetitive bending/stooping etc and have found a few. This kind of job is not easy to find in nursing. Can I be applying for other jobs while still on wc leave at my current job just in case I can't go back (which is what I want but Dr is very doubtful).

[1171]

yes you can.
once your condition has reached maximum recovery or permanent & stationary you are eligible for unemployment and are encouraged to look for work within your restrictions.
you may even have a supplemental job displacement voucher comming to help with any retraining
http://www.dir.ca.gov/dwc/rehab.html

you are only restricted from working when you are collecting temporary total disability due to a total disability off work order from your doctor.