reinstatement while on ativan

Nurses Disabilities

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hi i havent worked in a few years i suffer from panic attacks and have been on ativan for years as well as ambien tohelp sleep, i am asking the3 boards to reinstate my license one of the requirments they told me is a pysh eval as well as a physical lisiting my meds and the reason for taking them, is this gonna be a problem with getting my license reinstated? thanks joyce mass

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Specializes in PACU, CARDIAC ICU, TRAUMA, SICU, LTC.

This is a tough one. Because Ativan is a benzodiazepine, it is looked at as a mind altering substance that has the ability of impairing one's judgement. In your situation, Ativan keeps your panic attacks in check. Have you thought about your liability? What if a patient had an adverse outcome and you were the caregiver? Would you be considered to be "under the influence?" Do you drive a car? "DUI" in the state I reside includes drugs. I know I am all over the place with this, but I am giving you food for thought.

Many nurses take anti-anxiety agents and do their job well. Psych meds are always frowned upon because psychiatric illness and treatment does not get the attention it should in this country.

My heart goes out to you. Honesty is the best policy; I hope there is a solution for you!:redbeathe

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hi i havent worked in a few years i suffer from panic attacks and have been on ativan for years as well as ambien tohelp sleep, i am asking the3 boards to reinstate my license one of the requirments they told me is a pysh eval as well as a physical lisiting my meds and the reason for taking them, is this gonna be a problem with getting my license reinstated? thanks joyce mass

Hi Joyce,

Suzi, RN already gave you great advice but I just wanted to add something else. In my opinion, since you are taking this medication for panic disorder and have a valid script, I see no problem unless it impairs your judgement. I know benzo's effect each person different. While some may not practice good nursing judgment after taking them, others may do just fine. Anxiety can hinder you as well and cause impaired judgement, especially if it is so bad that it leads to a panic attack. Just my opinion.

SOrry if my grammer is terrible, I need sleep.

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thank you

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What state are you in. I am reinstating in Ga, and several other states after a 5 year lapse due to disability. Other than taking a reentry course and clinical hours there is no other requirement.

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im in mass they also wnt a letter from my dr stating what meds im on and thats where the ativan comes in afraind they wont reinstate due to ativan,

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That Sux. My Cal. Lic expired 8 yrs ago Oct 1 and as long as I do my CEUs I have until the 8 yr mark to renew with penelty. NY it does not matter how many years it is, Ga, Ct, MN, Fl,NJ,NC,DC,VT,All will reinstate if I have an Active lic elsewhere or a reentry course varying by state. The worst is FL an CT where you have to retake the NCLEX if you do not have a Lic elsewhere...I don't think I could do that again, too much stress. Good Luck.

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