I don't think I want to be a nurse anymore.

[justasweety]

I have been an LPN for over 19 years. This past January I admitted to diverting narcotics and the BON agreed to a suspended license instead of revocation. Stipulation being I have to participate in TnPap. I have 180 days from when the order was signed to get started with TnPap. Being clean is not a problem. I have been clean since May 2012. Even had to take narcotics after horrible dental work with dry sockets but was so happy that I didn't have those old cravings and all. I abused for right at 3 months total. ANYWAY...enough back story. I do not know if I want to be a nurse anymore. I know I was kind of burned out anyway before this happened but I am really leaning towards putting my experience and education into going to school for medical transcription/coding, something that is more paperwork related. My fear is, I do not completely understand the Affordable care act and the OIG list and so forth. If I surrender my license without going through the TnPap (and the cost of monitoring is an issue) will I be placed on the list where I can't work in any facility that accepts federal funds? I am looking for input on ideas of what to do. There is so much cost involved in the monitoring to keep my license and then the ordeal of trying to find a job that will hire me that falls in line with the TnPap guidelines. At this point, I am okay with not being a nurse anymore but I do not want to shoot myself in the foot from working in another area.

[PamelaPeterson]

just like you I was sent packing..I am off to truck driving school...