Desperate for answers regarding IPN

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Specializes in RNC-OB,L&D,Antenatal testing, Oncology.

I have been a nurse in FL for 25 years, never a disciplinary action, never a parking ticket. A month ago I was caught taking two Tylenol 3 from the pixies, it had been a horrible day, but I really don't have an excuse and as an adult I must own my mistake. After a positive urine test, I became so stressed that I resigned, thinking that would be end of everything. Wrong, the employee health office referred me to IPN, with a letter saying that if I didn't self report with ing 5 days they would report me to the FL DOH. So I did , I was inmediatly told to stop working at my new job, which I did, and now I'm scheduled for an evaluation, 4 hours away from Miami at $850. But, that's not all, two days ago an investigator from the FL DOH shows up at my house because another entity of the hospital also reported me. So now I have two cases on me, DOH and IPN.

What to do? I really could use some help, I'm afraid that the little money I have saved will be consumed in legal fees if I hire an attorney. And I also have read that IPN can give a long contract and I would be unable to work for a while.

Im extremely stressed, can someone please tell me something positive about IPN, I think I have all of the negative comments.

Please help

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Im not from Florida but I want to let you know it is going to be OK. Many have survived this and you will too. It can be trying at times. Hang in there.

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I have nothing positive to tell you about IPN.

I have no idea how an attorney can help. You would need to contact them. Some attorneys advise you call them before contacting IPN.

I can tell you how it will go without an attorney.

You go to the evaluation. The evaluator will make a recommendation to IPN regarding your "sentence." IPN will give you a contract. Should you refuse the contract, they will notify the BON. As the BON is already involved, they will want to know that you are compliant with IPN.

It is gonna cost a lot of money. With or without an attorney.

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Ok. So, I dont know if you are an addict. But I am. My participation in a monitoring program has saved my life and my career. Do I like all of the stuff Ive had to do..not always, but I have embraced it. I have spent thousands in drug screens, but you know what...i had a $40. A day habit that was destroying me. I have 2 1/2 years clean and 2 1/2 years left on 5 year contract and my life rocks now. I blew so much money to support an addiction, and now I am investing money in my recovery. Btw. I am under confidential board order and I know this is what it took for me to get the life I deserve. having said that...the best is yet to come. I hope you find nursing peers who will light the path for you. You are not alone.

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Specializes in RNC-OB,L&D,Antenatal testing, Oncology.

Waiting for my evaluation tomorrow, my heart wants to leave my chest. I have always been such a control freak that not knowing what is going to happen to me is driving me insane. I have tried to relax, engage in productive activities. My husband is been very supportive, but I can't help it. Guys please help, you all are the only ones I can relate to.

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How did it go? I used to livee in Florida, As a DQRM I used to investigate and report nurses for diversion. Ironically, i live in Virginia now, and they don't keep your mental health confidential. I was unaware of that. I was reported to the Board of Nursing in August. I had an investigation, but didn't go into the monitoring program, because I didn't have enough information and didn't think I needed it. On April first I received a 300 page document with charges from the board. THAT'S WHEN YOU HIRE AN ATTORNEY! because my license was on the line. She told me that if I had gone into the monitoring program when the investigation started, that the they would request that the board issue a "STAY" on my license investigation, and nothing would have become public record. Now I have enrolled in the monitoring program, had to leave my job, and my lawyer is fighting to keep me from facing the board. Also trying to bury the public documents. You are doing the right thing. Don't fight with the IPN, do whatever they ask of you, attorneys cost $300 per hour, and they can't get you out of diversion. My case is different because it wasn't practice related, that's why I hired an attorney. But as much as I hate to admit, the program will help me get my mind right, and hopefully I will be able to practice again soon. Hang in there.

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Specializes in tele, ICU, CVICU.

curious how you're evaluation went, Rosa.

Other than hearing how that was though, I think you're best bet is to comply with IPN. It does stink, it's only a lot once you get accustomed to it, then it's not really a big deal, just the way things are.

I'm not sure about the DOH stuff though. I thought they usually went after facilities versus individuals, but I admit I haven't looked into it. Do they do stuff similar to a BON, in regards to licensure?

I remember my first few days after getting the letter from the monitoring program & I was in absolute shock, numb. But it DOES get easier & better. sometimes, it just takes a little (or a lot) of time. you will get through it and having the support of your spouse is an awesome thing. Cherish that.

One day at a time. We're all human & make mistakes: keep your chin up.

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Specializes in RNC-OB,L&D,Antenatal testing, Oncology.

Thank you for your words of comfort. I went to the evaluation, it was a long day, two interviews, two doctors and a very long test. The doctors seemed okey, they listened. Soon I should be hearing from IPN, my mind is set to follow their recommendations. I'm thankful for having my family next to me with support and love. I know that what's coming it's not easy.

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Any news?

Please keep us updated on your progress.

Wish you all the best

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I came from california program to Florida IPN. There are a lot of positives of IPN

*Only have to check in for drug testing M_FRI, not on weekends. California 7 days a week

*Vacation travel is much easier to take. If in USA, there are plenty of sites available for drug test. The women in charge of these test is very nice.

*Only have to submit reports quarterly. Cali I had to fill out and send paperwork monthly.

*Most participants are able to work once they finished any requirement like rehab etc. Cali had to wait up to a year to work.

*nursing support groups are supportive and a great place to talk about daily life problems

The biggest cons of Florida is the evaluation required by certain crooked Dr's in Florida connected to their rehabs.

Gabby

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Specializes in RNC-OB,L&D,Antenatal testing, Oncology.

Thank you Roger, Gabby. I'm waiting for IPN to contact me with the contract. I'm at home, not working, I fell anxious and sad, mornings are the worse, I usually wake up with my heart pounding againts my chest, I spend my days thinking about my mistake.

Gabby, where can I find a nurse support group? I feel that only nurses can understand with details what I'm going through. My family is trying hard to be here for me, but I fell that I'm overwhelmeding them with my sadness.

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Specializes in ER, TRAUMA, MED-SURG.

Rosa, I SO know what u are feeling! I was caught diverting meds at work August 15th 1999. I had to wait at home for almost a month before I could get a bed for inpt treatment - I lost 15 lbs and got VERY little sleep - I was paranoid, peeking thru the blinds every time I heard a car door shut.

I just really felt like my life (professional and personal) was over and I would never get it back. Hang in there,let us know how you're doing.

Anne, RNC

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