Came clean & Fired yesterday

[savandanurse]

I admitted to stealing narcs yesterday after a pharm discrepancy was brought to my attention Friday afternoon by my manager.

HR introduced me to their resident TPAPN volunteer but said they had to report me to BON after I admitted to using at work.

I feel like I'm in limbo. I've cleaned out any trace of abusable substances from my house and downloaded all needed forms for TPAPN but since this is a third-party referral I have to wait for them to contact me?

My husband is so supportive. I came clean to his parents two hours after being fired and they prayed with us and said nothing I could do would make them love me less. I really needed that on a day like yesterday.

Questions: how long does it take to start the process after getting the documents from the TX board?

Would calling and self reporting expedite the process?

Could I be rejected from participating if I admitted to guilt and the board puts stips on my license?

I appreciate all the info and good vibes I've read so far. I just want redemption but know 3 years means a lot of work and $$$.

[CryssyD]

Welcome to recovery! It's a fascinating journey and you will learn so much about yourself and others--recovery was one of the best things that ever happened to me, and I truly hope it will be as wonderful for you.

The first step is the hardest, and it is behind you now. You sound like someone with strong support systems already in place, and that will be a real blessing for you in the days to come. If you can possibly afford it, a good attorney is someone you will want on your side, just to be sure you get the best possible outcome. But in general, admit to nothing other than "personal problems"--simple and vague; self-reporting to TPAPN is up to you, but will keep your participation in a monitoring program (because that's your next step) voluntary rather than Board-mandated (which would be public information).

Do start going to NA/AA meetings--you will be required to attend them eventually, and being proactive shows that you are serious about addressing your problems. Go to that first meeting with an open mind--the people there have been where you are and can show you where to go from here.

The Board probably won't reject you. Addiction in nurses is a known problem, and there are programs in place to help. Take advantage of the program in your state--you will probably not be prosecuted if you agree to enter a program; these programs are not perfect, and they are harsh--unforgiving, humiliating, and just plain aggravating much of the time, but you will be able to keep your license, you will be able to get a job (eventually), and you will come out of this experience a wiser, stronger, saner person. You will be more happy and whole than you ever thought possible, and you will know that it has all been worth it, in the end. Yes, it will be hard, and yes, it will cost you a lot of money, but your health and happiness are priceless and worth every sacrifice you may have to make. God bless and keep you, and best wishes always...Much love!

[Big Blondie, ASN, BSN, MSN, APRN]

I suggest immediate self referral to TPAPN. The board may not contact u for a year. And by then you will have part of contract done. Your case may remain confidential. Meaning not put in newsletter or on web if u comply with tpapn. U dont have to disclose everything. They dont need to know all of your business. Poor coping with life stressors sums it up. Leave all the rest to your step work with a sponsor. Volunteering too much can get you closer scrutinity. A lot of ppl dislike Tpapn. But they saved my life. Twice. You can do this.

[crazin01]

You've received great advice already. I don't have experience with Texas, but self-reporting is a good thing and i would think would certainly not push the starting of monitoring program back. Plus, it looks better to them (the monitoring program & essentially the BON) versus waiting for them to initiate contact. Also, a general responsive statement of 'poor response to life circumstances' seems to be the way to go, versus telling your case manager through TPAN (or whatever it is) your every problem and life experience. Sometimes, less is more in this matter in my and others' experiences.

I don't think the monitoring program will refuse you, especially if you seek them out & are proactive in the treatment. It seems most programs will place stipulations upon your license/practice capabilities when you are allowed to seek employment as a nurse again.

I wanted to say kudos to your spouse and your parents in law. For them to be so compassionate, loving and accepting immediately, is such a huge thing and you already know you are fortunate in that matter. I think having such a great support system can be a huge factor in making or breaking a path of recovery. Yes, things will stink and be rough for awhile, but you can do this and will be much stronger in the end. It is so freeing when you don't have to worry about keeping secrets and lies from those closest to you. The best is yet to come.

I've adopted the "sound of music" quote from Fraulein Maria lately to get me through: 'When God closes a door, some way he opens a window"

[sissiesmama, ASN, RN]

I suggest immediate self referral to TPAPN. The board may not contact u for a year. And by then you will have part of contract done. Your case may remain confidential. Meaning not put in newsletter or on web if u comply with tpapn. U dont have to disclose everything. They dont need to know all of your business. Poor coping with life stressors sums it up. Leave all the rest to your step work with a sponsor. Volunteering too much can get you closer scrutinity. A lot of ppl dislike Tpapn. But they saved my life. Twice. You can do this.

Agree with above - I live in Louisiana when I got referred due to using at work, the DON at that hospital suggested I self report and also start attending some AA / NA meetings.

Good luck!

Anne, RNC