IPN Contract/RN Boards

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I'm in the IPN Program as of Aug 1st for the very first time... I am a LPN and have graduated from RN school and need to take boards...Does anyone know while in the IPN Program, can I take boards and continue school for my ARNP?

Also, does Ultram show up in your urine? I broke my ribs and I'm on Ultram PRN...And, if I continue to take it..my doctor has to fill out that medication eval worksheet..What is someones opinion? Basically, I'm taking Ultram and want to know will IPN dismiss me?

Also, my contract is 5 years long. If you have NO issues after about a year, does anyone know if it will be cut short.

Let me know. Thanks! gatornurse06ipn

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In my program, I'm not allowed to take ANY prescription med without a MD filling out a form. And I'm only allowed OTC meds from a very short list without written MD approval. It sounds like you're running kind of wild with IPN, and with your recovery too for that matter. I would urge you to get everyone on the same page, transparency is a very important part of recovery. Even though it is sometimes a pain in the ass, it brings me a lot of peace knowing that I have absolutely nothing to hide.

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Good morning! For the most part I hear nurses here saying that they have had their contracts extended. Maybe a cut short is possible, but who knows.

Did they not ask what medications you were on when you started the program? I'm not familiar with IPN rules of engagement but in my state from the investigation up through the completion of your contract the board is privy and expects you to report all medications.

May I ask what you are in IPN for? Was it addiction? DUI? A positive MJ test? Whatever the answer, these programs are no joke and the previous poster is correct: transparency is necessary. You don't want to get caught in a lie. Trust me. You sit now in a seat of confidentiality, These things will not haunt your license. They will if board action is taken against you. Then everything from your crimes, compliance with the program, and any mental disorders you have been diagnosed with will be there permanently for the world to see. Tread carefully, tread wisely.

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Yes Ultram will show up but be more worried they find out you got scrip and did not report they take that more seriously than a positive test in the Texas program.

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Earthmama...First of all, I have been very open with IPN regarding my medication and EVERYONE is on the same page. I have NEVER had a positive test while taking the Ultram but I have heard also, that it can happen. I'm not sure what you mean "running kind of wild with IPN and with your recovery too for that matter?"

Actually, it's been 21 months since my last incident. I have gone thru substance abuse program and completed it.

After I told them the med I was on, my case worker said to have my doctor fill out the med form. But, they didn't say anything else on what could or may happen if I continue to use the med PRN.

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TXRNC,

I have been in IOP treatment and have had many drug test the last 21 months...I have NEVER had a positive test while taking Ultram. I have reported it since the day I got it to ALL involved with my treatment so everyone can be on the same page. But, I hear it can happen...:/

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Twoyearnurse,

Yes, they ask about my meds. I told them I was prescribe Ultram. They told me to get the med form filled out by my doctor.

I am in IPN over Substance Abuse. First time ever! I had my own meds at home. NEVER diverted. But, my RX was expired and I had a mix of meds from dental surgeries in the same bottle. So, charged with having narcotics without a RX.

I just wanted to know opinions regarding if I get that form filled out by my doctor will it help me or hurt me in the long run? If it's going to cause issues then I will get something else that will not hurt my IPN contract. Thanks:)

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I understood your original post to mean that IPN was not aware of the ultram. I meant no offense.

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No worries Earthmama...I didn't take that at all:) But, my life is a OPEN BOOK! Thanks for the advise! It's all new to me, and I just want to do the RIGHT THING!!:yes:How long does it take for Ultram to get out of your system? I have only taken it since Friday. I only took one today.

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Specializes in Complex pedi to LTC/SA & now a manager.
How long does it take for Ultram to get out of your system? I have only taken it since Friday. I only took one today.

Check with your pharmacist or prescribing physician for specifics to your situation.

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Hello gatornurse06ipn,

I can try to help with some of your questions/concerns.

Are you currently working in the healthcare field?

When you received your RX for the Ultram did you contact your casework ASAP? Yes, your doctor will have some paperwork to fill out in order for you to take the Ultram while you are in the program. If that paperwork has been filled out and your caseworker is aware then you should be ok. If you are working in the healthcare field, you might be asked to refrain from working while you are taking this medication and you can pass a UDS.

Also, I am not sure what UDS you have been taking, but I can tell you the UDS we get with IPN. The Ultram will show if it is in your system and pop you for a positive. I have witnessed it one time too many. Nurse's with the attitude "Oh it's just Ultram", doesn't matter. Anyways, DO NOT GET BUSTED WITH A POSITIVE UDS & THEY DO NOT HAVE THE PAPERWORK FOR IT. If you pop a positive and they do not have your paperwork. It is considered being noncompliant and you will end up having to go for another evaluation.

There was a nurse in my support group who was taking Ultram and popped a positive and she has been referred to the BON. Don't take the chance.

As for early release. Nope. They treat us like prisoners, but it's not jail. We don't get time off for good behavior.

As for sitting for your boards. That is going to be a question you are going to have to talk with your caseworker about and the BON. I have seen a handful of LPN's who crossed over to RN's while in the program. Each one of them had to go in front of the BON and get permission.

I have also seen a couple of nurse's go forward to get their ARNP and they had to go in front of the BON for that also. The one nurse who had graduated from IPN did not have to go in front of the BON. Just the ones who were currently in the program.

I hope this bit of information helps. Send me a message if you have more questions. I am located in Southern Florida.

Best of Wishes.

SP

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FYI, after 4 1/2 years of flawless monitoring, I decieded to take a ultram due to stomach cramps, one time thing, also thought it would not be tested for. I am now facing a possible 3 year suspension and had to stop working as a RN immediately. It has possibly destroyed my future and career in nursing that I have worked very hard for. I have not drank over this, and I am grateful for that, but believe me....when they say tylenol, motrin, and asa only....they mean it! Don't take your contract lightly...I am so regretful that I was so stupid. I would suffer with any pain now to have this awlful incident go away. When in doubt, call your CM and ask for advice, don't take the contract for granted...you will deeply regret it when your life is turned upside down over a poor choice. Good luck to you!

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