RN with a record, need HELP

[nm1979]

I am so scared. I made a horrible mistake and need some advice. To make a long story short I became addicted to narcotics after injuring my back during a code. I got in so deep that I ended up getting in trouble with the law. Since this is my first offense my lawyer says i will just get a year's probation which I will have to serve before i can have my record expunged. I am not currently working and do not plan on applying until my probation is over. I am now clean, registered with the tennessee peer assistance program and attending narcotics anonymous meetings 3 times a week. My question is will the board of nursing find out automatically or will it have to be reported. Since i didn't get in trouble on the job it won't be reported my an employer. The BON (didn't give them my name) said when i renew I will have to check that I have been convicted of a felony and then it will be investigated but if i don't renew until my record is expunged I can mark no. Any advice?? Thanks alot.

[Liddle Noodnik]

I am so scared. I made a horrible mistake ... Any advice?? Thanks alot.

I don't know how that works - but I would check in your area to see if there is an impaired nurses support group of some kind. Tough road ahead - I'm 19 years AA recovery. By the grace of God I never got to the point of diversion, so I can empathize! It sure was not a matter of you saying "I think when I grow up I'm going to steal drugs to support my habit!" So if anyone is disappointed in you it's YOU!

So maybe you could call some rehabs and ask them if they know of any support groups where the other nurses could help you. Also you may want to contact a lawyer to see what your rights are.

In any case - good luck to you!