Addiction issues

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Im a RN in Pennsylvania that was in their VRP program for allmost a year. Unfortunately I relapsed, failed a urine and lost my job and very shortly will be losing my license for probaly 3 years. Im devastated. Not only do I have this addiction problem but nursing is the only job I truly loved, when sober. Any suggestions for employment other than being an Rn will be helpfull. I think about CNA work but so far it has depressed me greatly to think about going back to that work. I guess this is something I will have to overcome but it is just so hard. And then I wonder if I will ever be able to get my license back in 3 years and then find work. Please, any help with the NJ topic, or finding another job that can utilize my A.D.RN and finally with shame and depression over ruining my career and life would be appreciated. Sorry if this too much for one post

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Specializes in LTC, Psych, Med/Surg.

Although it may seem like it now, rommel19540, you have NOT "ruined your life." This is true if you can use your relapse and it's consequences to motivate you to make your recovery from addiction the number one priority in your life. There are nurses who have successfully come back from worse consequences than yours. You are not alone!

Catmom :paw:

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Just wanted to give u some support...I would suggest that u find another field you worked in before you became a nurse, even if it doesn't pay as well, at least being out of the nursing field for awhile will keep temptation down...unfortunatley we don't appreciate what we have or got in nursing until its gone....Im in a similair situation and am now looking for a job in a different career field, I never lost my license but I have a misdeamenor of theft on my record so I am not eligble to work until 5 years from date of conviction but we can get through all of this, just stay sober, take this time to reflect on your actions and how you can get you life back together, God Bless..

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Specializes in Rehab, Infection, LTC.

There are other jobs that dont require a license but utilize your degree. Have you googled?

I agree..you havent ruined your life! but it does feel that way, i felt the same way. it's part of being an addict to feel that way because our self esteem is so low to begin with.

I would like to suggest that you take some time to work on you and your recovery. God may be giving you just the time you need to concentrate on yourself. Maybe take a non stress job (my dream would be in a yarn store)and use the time off to concentrate on you.

keep us posted please! you get no judgements from us...only support, strength and hope.

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rommel,

I have recently been fired and am also in PA. I am being evaluated by a drug counselor on Friday.

I am trying to get into the VRP program, as well.

Did you divert? Were you reported to the DEA and did they press charges?

Sorry for all the questions, but I am so worried that I'll be going to jail soon... Leaving my 2 daughters with no father.

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Specializes in Rehab, Infection, LTC.
rommel,

I have recently been fired and am also in PA. I am being evaluated by a drug counselor on Friday.

I am trying to get into the VRP program, as well.

Did you divert? Were you reported to the DEA and did they press charges?

Sorry for all the questions, but I am so worried that I'll be going to jail soon... Leaving my 2 daughters with no father.

have you gotten a lawyer yet? if not, please do so because you need one.

good luck to you!

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^

I don't have any money for a lawyer, unfortunately.

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Specializes in LTC, MDS, Education.

sl33y, Don't know what to say at this point but am sending prayers and best wishes. If police are not involved you won't go to jail. Probably best thing to do at this point is to get into a recovery program STAT. Just hang in there, for you and your kids. You WILL get through this. Seems grim now but things WILL get better....Take care and keep on posting.:flwrhrts:

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Thank you for your kind words!

I am so worried that someone from the DEA office is going to want to press charges.

I am trying my best to not worry about things I cannot change, but its tough.....

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Specializes in LTC, MDS, Education.

sl33y.....What makes you think DEA are involved? Maybe your former employer is just trying to scare you. I wish I could be of more help. Just know I am sending hope, peace of mind and prayers your way.:typing

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Specializes in Impaired Nurse Advocate, CRNA, ER,.
rommel,

I have recently been fired and am also in PA. I am being evaluated by a drug counselor on Friday.

I am trying to get into the VRP program, as well.

Did you divert? Were you reported to the DEA and did they press charges?

Sorry for all the questions, but I am so worried that I'll be going to jail soon... Leaving my 2 daughters with no father.

sl33y,

Focusing on the problem perpetuates the problem. Focus on the solution.

Imagine you're driving your car, and instead of focusing on the road ahead you focus on the rear-view mirror. How long will it take before you crash? Instead, you focus on where you want to go and drive in that direction.

I agree with the suggestions to get an attorney with experience in administrative law to deal with the board of nursing. Boards of nursing are charged with protecting the public from nurses who present a risk to the public as a result of impairment (psychological or physical impairment, or from chemical abuse). While you may represent yourself when dealing with the board, you are more likely to have a better outcome if an experienced attorney represents you. You don't want to risk losing your license permanently because you made mistakes during your hearing with the board.

If you should end up with criminal charges being filed against you, get a criminal attorney.

I'm sure money is tight, but if you make a mistake during the investigation and/or hearing before the board of nursing, you could lose your license permanently, and your license is your way of earning a living.

Contact the local bar association and ask for attorneys who will work with you on designing payment plan, or contact The American Association of Nurse Attorneys for referrals. Do you have your own malpractice or ? If so, contact them and ask for a referral. Read your policy. The insurance company usually covers attorney fees should you have legal proceedings filed against you.

You're in my prayers,

Jack

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Thanks everyone for giving advice.

I will look up some attorneys in my area.

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