Finding Work on a Clean License

[RNigothis]

Hi everyone,

I'm looking for insight from nurses who have been in a similar situation. I'm currently in the HAVEN program in Connecticut, which is a confidential, non-disciplinary alternative to board action. My license remains clean—no public discipline, no restrictions visible on Nursys, and even my narcotics restriction is private.

I self-reported to HAVEN the same day I was confronted about a diversion incident. From the beginning, I've been fully compliant, with all negative toxicology tests. My case is being framed by my case manager and therapist as anxiety and situational distress-related, not substance use. 

Once my narcotics restriction is lifted, I would like to return to an inpatient hospital role, possibly med-surg or another acute care setting. My case manager told me I do not need to disclose why I'm in the program to employers, unless absolutely necessary (e.g., if they require a liaison), but but I have heard input from other nurses that I should do so. My diversion was really an isolated case for Ativan not that it makes it any better. 

So my question is:

How difficult was it for those of you in a monitoring program—especially with a clean license and no SUD diagnosis—to find a hospital job?

Did you encounter major hurdles, or were some employers understanding and supportive once they saw compliance and transparency?

Any personal experiences or advice would really help as I prepare for my next steps. Thank you so much in advance.

[TIMFY]

Do you have to disclose that you're in the program in the first place? I'm guessing your employer has to do evals? If you have to tell them you're in a program, I would disclose why. If you can just not tell them in the first place, I would do that.

[RNigothis]

TIMFY said:

Do you have to disclose that you're in the program in the first place? I'm guessing your employer has to do evals? If you have to tell them you're in a program, I would disclose why. If you can just not tell them in the first place, I would do that.

From what I understand I will be needing a liaison for evals, yes. Do you know if the liaison situation is throughout the whole contract or it can be lifted? I still have not received my contract yet, but anxiety speaks louder at times.

[NurseJackie69]

RNigothis said:

From what I understand I will be needing a liaison for evals, yes. Do you know if the liaison situation is throughout the whole contract or it can be lifted? I still have not received my contract yet, but anxiety speaks louder at times.

Depends on the individual and the state regarding how your contract/consent order is written. Most require quarterly reports for the entire duration. Some only require quarterly reports for one or 2 years.

[Nursrcy00901]

My record is public but I hope this gives you some hope- I was hired directly into inpatient nursing where narcotics are given even though I have 6 months of not being able to pass them. Employers are a lot more forgiving especially when you're open with them. I'm now a month away from being able to pass narcotics and the time has flown!