Are you required to tell employers or will they find out?

Dixielee, BSN, RN · Jun 12, 2012

This is the second post today I have seen referencing TNPAP. I have no idea what that is. I suppose I could Google it, but I'm not that motivated. I probably couldn't answer your question since I don't know what you are talking about, but I hope someone more knowledgeable than I can help you.

roser13, ASN, RN · Jun 12, 2012

I have no idea what that is either. But I do know that it's NEVER a good idea to hide relevant info from a potential employer. They almost always will find out what you don't want them to know, whether by official or unofficial means. Whatever TNPAP is, is it worse than having a lie discovered by a potential employer?

Meriwhen, ASN, BSN, MSN, RN · Jun 13, 2012

TNPAP: Tennessee Professional Assistance Program. It's a program for impaired nurses and other healthcare providers.

As far as whether you need to tell employers...I guess it would be based on whether their employment application asks about it. IMO, you may not have to volunteer the info immediately...but you should never lie about it.

Best of luck!

wish_me_luck, BSN, RN · Jun 13, 2012

yep, Meriwhen, is correct. Impairment in this program and other equivalents is drug, alcohol, physical, mental, or any combo. I did not divert drugs. Mine is more mental health issues and some degree of alcohol issues (think binging). Therefore, I don't think I will have restrictions when it comes to medications because I don't use drugs/divert them. I was given the option to do the program and sit for boards. I am thrilled because I want my license and I want to get better (and am working on it outside of what the BoN is requesting); but my concern is an employer will see I am in the program and say "we don't want her".

allnurses Guide · Jun 13, 2012

Unfortunately, it's always a possibility, that you will have a harder

time finding a job. It's much better to go ahead and disclose

it at first though, because yes, your employer will probably find

out. Good luck!

TXRN2 · Jun 13, 2012

wish-me-luck: i don't know about TN, but in texas one's employer would absolutely have to know about you being in the program before hiring you. they are involved in the whole process- have to have quarterly meetings, paperwork, etc. you can, however, be selective as to when you divulge your involvement in such a program during the interview process- as has been stated in this forum before, it may be best to wait until they have actually offered you a job. best of luck!!

lisaD_LPN · Jun 14, 2012

In Washington State when a prospective employer checks my license they can see the forms I signed (I have a big problem with them displaying my signature to the general public-ID Theft) about the WHPS program including the Statements of Charges, Allegations and the Informal Disposition. Anyone can check a license just by name in WA, you dont have to be an employer or other health professional to do so. :eek:

alfrnbsn1988 · Jun 18, 2012

Not unless you were diagnosed and placed into rehab. I went through PA PAP, got evaluated by Marworth, my situation was then reviewed by the state and state cleared my investigation. Was found not guilty and have had two jobs without any trouble and no mention of any happenings.