I'm filling in for a co-worker who suddenly and without warning went on a leave of absence. We have been informed by family she was 5150'd and is now going to a 30 day inpatient treatment program for depression and SI. She showed absolutely zero signs of this at work, and in fact, is one of the more cheerful and helpful people around here. She is an RN with many years experience. This is devastating to all of us.
We are a tiny group and very close like family, and we are concerned for her license. Everyone seems to think a 5150 puts your RN license up for review. We can't get a straight answer from the CA BON. Now I'm also hearing a 5150 puts you on a "no fly" list!
Has anyone heard of these two consequences for being 5150'd?
This opens up a lot of thoughts about the mental health system. Of course we know it is very broken, but I'm GOBSMACKED to think your professional license and ability to fly would be impacted for a 5150.
Is getting help really this punitive? I'm shocked to think how many people, especially licensed professionals, DON'T seek help for fear of these consequences. How is an endangered license and inability to fly helpful to someone in a crisis like that? It doesn't make sense. I'm disgusted at the way this system works, if this is true.