Discipline Meeting

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Specializes in Medicine.

I was recently off on a paid suspension after a false accusation from a fellow colleague about potential narcotic use.  I’m told at the end of the week I’m meeting with HR, the union and management.  I’ve been left in the dark regarding the details of such.  Does HR attend all meetings with the union or should I suspect the worse - firing.  I’ve been riddled with stress being home with no details.  The unit has been less then helpful.

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Specializes in Critical Care.

I think you need to get in touch with your union rep.  Keep trying until someone responds to you.  That's their job to be there for you and while the union may not have specific info about you, they have probably been present during meetings like this before and can at least provide you with what to expect. 

 

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Specializes in Specializes in L/D, newborn, GYN, LTC, Dialysis.

I agree with meeting with the union rep. HR and your unit will be mouths-closed, tighter than a clam until that meeting and are not your friends.

I am sorry this is happening to you. Always have representation and if it looks like things won't go well, get a lawyer ASAP. Often your carrier can help you with the cost and finding such a lawyer, versed in such cases, defending nurses.

I wish you well.

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Specializes in Medicine.

I contacted the union they knew nothing and were less then helpful.  I contacted a lawyer who said “listen and say minimal in the meeting.”  I’ve been left in the dark and on a paid suspension sitting at home worried sick.  I have a lawyer on speed dial if anything goes array at the meeting.  I’ve done a ton of reading on the internet and anyone even pointing the finger at you for narcotic diversion can ruin your career.  I will listen and take notes at the meeting but was told a lawyer or legal protection can’t do much until it’s escalated to the college or your terminated.

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Specializes in Specializes in L/D, newborn, GYN, LTC, Dialysis.

It is true, anything involving narcotics can be devastating. I don't know your situation, and you don't want to give details here. I just want to wish you the best. And maybe call a different lawyer, one who specializes in nurse defense cases. This one is not very helpful. And still insist on a union rep being with you in the meeting. Or a lawyer.

Don't go alone!

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Specializes in Pediatrics, Pediatric Float, PICU, NICU.

I also am sorry you’re going through this and echo other comments. Don’t go in alone and do not admit to anything at all! I’ve known of people who were truly NOT guilty of diverting but during these types of meetings they were pressured into casually admitting that maybe they’ve haven’t wasted appropriately in the past (like not having the witness nurse watch them dispose of the leftover narcotic) and were found guilty based solely on that alone.

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Specializes in oncology.
3 hours ago, SmilingBluEyes said:

And maybe call a different lawyer, one who specializes in nurse defense cases. This one is not very helpful. And still insist on a union rep being with you in the meeting. Or a lawyer.

Don't go alone!

Great advice! The union rep must come and I would insist on legal representation. 

 

4 hours ago, nurse_elle1956 said:

I was recently off on a paid suspension after a false accusation from a fellow colleague about potential narcotic use

These are serious allegations -- don't let them convince you to go  it alone. 

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Specializes in oncology.
4 hours ago, nurse_elle1956 said:

I will listen and take notes at the meeting but was told a lawyer or legal protection can’t do much until it’s escalated to the college or your terminated.

Having legal protection there will show that you are taking all of this seriously and want the full protection of the law. When it is escalated it may be too late.

 

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Specializes in retired LTC.

Whenever HR sits in for these meetings, it's usually indicative that BIG decisions are coming down.

JMHO but this doesn't look like it bodes well for you. Say little and most importantly, have backup support.

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Specializes in Critical Care.

Please know that it is your right to have representation.  Read this:  https://www.umass.edu/usa/weingarten.htm  

Please please please, ask for representation by at least your union.  DO NOT go into that meeting alone and do not agree to answer questions without at least a union rep present.  It is your right to request confidential consultation with your union rep during the meeting.  A union worth it's salt will interject when questions get to touchy and think you should not answer.

If you want to bring an attorney (which I highly recommend), have the union reschedule the meeting so your attorney can be present.

All of this is YOUR legal RIGHT.  You may feel hopeless and powerless now, but you do have rights.  And you deserve every bit of these rights.

If it seems like they are going to fire you (again, consult with union rep), give them your resignation instead.  

I 100% agree with SmilingBluEyes that your unit and HR are not your friends right now.

I wish you nothing but the best. 

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Specializes in oncology.

Do realize this accusation is threatening your career and all you have worked for. Get a good attorney -- who knows you may have grounds for suing your employer for their part in this. 

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Specializes in Vents, Telemetry, Home Care, Home infusion.

Agree 100%

3 hours ago, CABGpatch_RN said:

Please know that it is your right to have representation.  Read this:  https://www.umass.edu/usa/weingarten.htm  

Please please please, ask for representation by at least your union.  DO NOT go into that meeting alone and do not agree to answer questions without at least a union rep present.  It is your right to request confidential consultation with your union rep during the meeting.  A union worth it's salt will interject when questions get to touchy and think you should not answer. 

If you want to bring an attorney (which I highly recommend), have the union reschedule the meeting so your attorney can be present.

All of this is YOUR legal RIGHT.  You may feel hopeless and powerless now, but you do have rights.  And you deserve every bit of these rights.

Two good articles to help you

NYSNA  Knowing the Basics of the Grievance Process

Washington SNA  Representation rights

READ your union contract info regarding representation at hearings. They are obligated to provide you with a union rep--that's what dues are for!

I would also check your facilities policy on the  grievance process as some  permit a support person to attend the meeting if union rep not available so they could take notes of the encounter.  My prior health system had a 4 step process which allowed one to appeal a decision to the next level for reconsideration--know your rights.

American Association of Nurse Attorneys  Attorney Referral service can help you reach an expert in this area.

Let us know if we can help with more info.

 

 

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