HELP! Diversion CRNA w narcotic restriction beginning job hunt.....

[Sheri444]

I'm new to this board, hi everybody. Please help....I'm a CRNA looking for help from my peers who have successfully re-entered nursing w a narcotic restriction, and those who have hired them. Here goes....

Long story short, I had eight years of experience as a CRNA. To say that I love my job is an understatement. I had surgery on my thumb and developed a narcotic addiction. When I was able to return to work, I "picked up" fentanyl. About five months into my addiction, I left evidence in a call room, was, caught, and terminated. I voluntarily entered diversion.

As you all know, to say that my life has seemed like a nightmare is an understatement; emotionally, financially, etc. etc. etc. I'm doing great, 20 months clean, and have gotten my nursing license back, with narcotic restrictions. Yay. I've just started the process of job hunting.

Please, CRNAs who have successfully reentered the job market w a narcotic restriction, and those who have hired them, I know there is no "right way" to go about this but I would love some opinions.

My instincts tell me to address this issue up front?

1- Cover letter

At the end if the first paragraph I wrote, "Life circumstances have led me to alter the course of my career, and after careful consideration, I have decided to embark on a career as a "............" nurse."

2-Next up, my resume.

I have a year gap, and then a job for six months as a production assistant.

My stumbling block is the gap in my resume. I have absolutely no idea how to address it.

3-And finally, the interview.

When do I "come clean" (excuse the pun...)?

I really need help.

Thank you soooo much,

Sheri

[RNJennA]

I am a few months away from being finished with my narcotic restriction. I had a really hard time finding a job as a nurse with that restriction. My suggestion is to fine a place that you can volunteer as a nurse. This will show future employers that you can still function as a nurse even with that restriction. I like your sentence for the cover letter. Wish I would have seen that a few months ago.