Question for Aussie nurses

[nell]

In most, if not all states here in America, an RN can lose her license for being convicted of various offenses, including drug use. Is this true in Australia?

[Tookie]

What type of drug use are you referring to

Tookie

[RN from OZ]

Not usually ! it depends on the situation.

I have worked with nurses before who have had drug problems/ convictions and they have not lost their licence. They are usually suspended and directed to treatment, then when deemed rehabilitated are allowed to work with restrictions...like not to give S8 drugs or carry the keys to the DD safe, and must submit to urine and blood drug screens.

Ironically nurses who have made errors in the clinical setting , leading to Pt death or harm...even if it was a mishap they loose their licence, and gain a criminal conviction !

RN from Oz

[aus nurse]

I agree wth RN from OZ...she summed it up well, I can't add anything. Just couldn't let a thread concerning aussie nurses go by without me sticking my nose in:D :chuckle

[nell]

Thanks for the replies. This nurse is using marijuana and PCP at least - don't know for sure what else.