Drug screen refusal at work

Floor_Nurse · Jun 5, 2017

Many employers require that you (a nurse) submit to random drug testing as a condition of employment. The Tx. Peer Assistance Program states in their policy that you can be dismissed from their program if you don't comply with their (drug) policies.

The Tx. BON actually has some power...if a complaint has been made against you, they can order a "random" drug test, which is like a court order that you must comply with.

I don't know how long any of this takes.

pro-student · Jun 5, 2017

These questions would be better addressed to the organizations your inquiring about. They could give you the best, most accurate answers. Refusal to submit to a drug test is generally grounds for immediate dismissal but your agency should have a policy you can access about this. Generally speaking, refusal to take a drug test would not be reportable but suspicion of drug diversion would be. You have a right to refuse drug testing but (unless you work for a government employer) you employer has a right to terminate your employment for refusal.

Drug Testing in the Workplace

Trauma Columnist · Jun 5, 2017

Moved to Recovery for more answers

~Mi Vida Loca~RN, ASN, RN · Jun 5, 2017

I tried finding the website with the list but I can't. There are many states that have mandatory reporting. If a nurse refuses a drug screen they have to report it to the board. I could not find the list as I stated if Texas is one of those states. However what I did find the Texas BON website is that any employer that terminates a Nurse or Suspends for longer than 7 days, they are required to report that nurse to the BON with the reason of termination or suspension and any supporting evidence.

So if your company terminated you (or whoever this question is about) for refusing the drug test (majority of employers it is an automatic termination) they will be mandated to report you according to the rules of the Texas BON.

If you refused and they hadn't fired you yet and you resign first, but they still are one of the states that have to report any refusal, they will still report.

They are also mandated to report any nurses suspected of being under the influence or having a mental break or suspected drug use.

Kel65, MSN, RN · Jun 6, 2017

Yes. Been there done that. If you work at a hospital expect it. If you're luckyâ€‹ it will be to TPAPN and not the board. Be prepared for a life changing or shattering experience depending on you're circumstances, finances and attitude.