positive BAC

[kelshar]

What happens if a nurse is found with a positive blood alcohol level at work? My daughter went to work after a night of binge drinking and was reported for smelling of alcohol. She agreed to a blood test and it came back well over the legal limit. I want to support her but don't want to give her false hope. What will happen to her license? What should we prepare for?

[jackstem]

Thank you for your advice. We live in Austin, where the BON is located. I was really considering having her go in to talk to them; however, I never considered the legal aspect behind it all. This situation is too large for us to handle on our own. I pray we make the best decisions. It's so hard to see her feel so lost and afraid.

To clarify, I knew there would be legal action taken against her, but I never thought about finding an attorney. I have let my belief in her cloud m judgement. She is my daughter but the to the board she is just a number.

I wouldn't speak to the board without at least consulting with a license defense attorney first. The board of nursing's job is to protect the public, not advocate for your daughter.

As far as your judgment being "clouded", yes it is. But that's OK, she's your child. Now, what I'm about to say my not be pleasant, but it needs to be said. If your daughter's physician doesn't recommend a chemical dependency evaluation (and don't be surprised if s/he doesn't) I would strongly recommend that she have one done. The board will likely recommend one anyway. Many physicians have no idea what to do when a patient has substance abuse or dependence issues. They receive little, if any, training. A study I read a few years ago said over half of the doctors presented with signs and symptoms of dependence missed (or avoided) the diagnosis!

Keep us posted as to the progress of everything that's going on. Even though things seem pretty bleak, there is hope!

Jack