First DUI. No hope. Help.

[purpleapple428]

I live in Washington state. Had several drinks. I rear ended somebody. Nobody was injured or killed. This is my first accident ever.

Blew .254. Not looking good on my part. Seeing lawyer today, court tomorrow. I feel like my life is over.

My chances of nursing school are ruined.

My parents suggest me moving back home (CA) so the legal costs won’t be unbearable with other costs, but I feel like I won’t be able to work as a CNA again. My CA CNA license is still active though. But when I renew in a few years, I’m basically screwed.

Please give me hope. I know people make mistakes. I’ve made a bad one. Any advice, encouragement would help.

If if I stay in WA I know I’m screwed when I have to renew my license next year.

[gere7404, BSN, RN]

How close are you to applying to nursing school? I had a DUI that I plead no contest to and got dismissed by diversion. Two years later I started my program and am now a registered nurse. It's not the end of the road for you By a long shot.

[Tigerlily8]

I suggest you research the Washington state program for impaired nurses to get an idea of what to expect should you remain in Washington. I hear that California is one of the strictest states in dealing with impaired health care providers but have no first hand knowledge. Will it not be simpler to remain where you are? I am anticipating that you will have court appearances, DUI classes, community service etc that will need to be completed in the municipality where the offense was committed. Don't despair, you are not the first nursing student/health professional to make such a mistake. It will help you to be non-judgmental with your future patients.