Help!

music · Aug 2, 2006

Hi, Everyone. I hope somebody has some advice for me to help minimize my anxiety. I am currently an LVN in CA. I've been licenced since April 4, 2005. I received a DUI conviction in 2001. I reported the conviction to BON when applying for licensure. Unfortunately, in December 2004, I received a second Dui leaving a christmas party; I wasn't driving, but the keys were in the ignition (irrelevant, I know). Needless to say, I shouldn't drink alcohol, and I haven't for almost two years now. I was ordered to send the information regarding the conviction to the board, which I did last September. It has been nearly ten months since the BON has received the required information. Just the other day( July29, 2006) I recieved a certified package from the BON with an formal accusation and request for dicipline. This is a formal legal document so I have an appoitment with an attorney this evening. My question is: is anyone familar with the hearing or settlement process? This is creating intense anxiety as If they could excile or imprsion me. I love nursing, but people make mistakes; we are only human. I am contemplating letting the board dicipline me without much of a fight; afterall, I'm guilty and paying dearly for it. I have a Business degree from Pepperdine University. I am contemplating letting the BON do what they will (as if I have a choice anyway) with my licence and pursing something meanwhile. We, as nurses have to maintain are mental health, too; and this level of anxiety that I'm currently feeling is not healthy, and, as slow as the BON works, I could find myself in this state for far too long. I have to be reasonable: I can't afford to get tied up in uncertainties involved in the case. The BON has strong, underlying totalitarian characteristics, which makes dealing with them terribly discouraging.

Kristen,

First of all, I commend you on your honesty and for reaching out. You are doing all the right things and it sounds like you have recognized and accepted the fact that you have a problem with alcohol and have taken corrective "steps" in that area.

It took the BON 10 months to reply? That's unfortunate. You have had to worry about this for awhile. But, the important thing is that you are facing it and you did what you needed to do. I would just go into that meeting with them and show them that you are a professional person who is willing to honestly face this problem. Make it known that you are willing to do whatever it takes to preserve your professional career that you worked and studied so hard to attain. Tell them that you have learned a very important lesson that in fact will probably make you a better nurse and ask for their understanding and direction in taking positive steps forward.

Just keep in mind that they are doing their job, even if it is slowly, to protect patients from potential problems. Your focus should be to appear before them in a professional and sincere manner and let them see who you really are. All they know now is what has been reported and they are duty bound to respond and to meet with you.

I wish you well as you go through the process and remember that we are members of a helping profession. I'm sure that the Board will take all facts along with your personal story into consideration. Hold your head up high and know that you are most probably not the first and won't be the last nurse who goes through this. Just learn from it and move on with confidence in your ability to make positive changes in your life. It's up to you. Take charge of your future and good luck to you.

:kiss

Kristen2987 · Aug 3, 2006

Kristen,
First of all, I commend you on your honesty and for reaching out. You are doing all the right things and it sounds like you have recognized and accepted the fact that you have a problem with alcohol and have taken corrective "steps" in that area.
It took the BON 10 months to reply? That's unfortunate. You have had to worry about this for awhile. But, the important thing is that you are facing it and you did what you needed to do. I would just go into that meeting with them and show them that you are a professional person who is willing to honestly face this problem. Make it known that you are willing to do whatever it takes to preserve your professional career that you worked and studied so hard to attain. Tell them that you have learned a very important lesson that in fact will probably make you a better nurse and ask for their understanding and direction in taking positive steps forward.
Just keep in mind that they are doing their job, even if it is slowly, to protect patients from potential problems. Your focus should be to appear before them in a professional and sincere manner and let them see who you really are. All they know now is what has been reported and they are duty bound to respond and to meet with you.
I wish you well as you go through the process and remember that we are members of a helping profession. I'm sure that the Board will take all facts along with your personal story into consideration. Hold your head up high and know that you are most probably not the first and won't be the last nurse who goes through this. Just learn from it and move on with confidence in your ability to make positive changes in your life. It's up to you. Take charge of your future and good luck to you.
:kiss

Music,

Thank you very much for your vote of confidence and kindness. I met with with an attorney, and he will be contacting the BON in regards to a settlement. I will just pray for now. Again, I truly thank you for your kindness.

Kristen