I was fired for 3 medication errors, and I can't find a job

[Nurse Beth, MSN]

Dear Fired,

I'm sorry you're going through this, and the most important thing here is your safe practice. The issues you have to address are ensuring your own safe practice and establishing credibility with potential employers.

• Please take time to reflect on the medication errors and the circumstances surrounding them. It is crucial to understand what went wrong, what you have learned from the experience, and how you have improved or changed your practice to prevent similar incidents in the future. Please think about what you can do differently to avoid making the same mistakes.
• Seek additional training or certifications related to your field. This can help you enhance your skills and demonstrate your commitment to ongoing professional development. You can easily find continuing education courses on medication safety and print out copies of your course completions for your portfolio or interviews. This can help rebuild your credibility. 
• Address the issue in job interviews. Be prepared to discuss the medication errors in a job interview, focusing on what you learned and how you've improved your practices. Emphasize your commitment to patient safety and your dedication to continuous improvement.
• Network. Leverage professional networks to connect with individuals in your field. Often jobs come from who you know. Attend your local nursing professional organization meetings. Reach out to colleagues.
• Consider a different setting. You may need to change settings. If finding a job in the same setting is challenging, explore opportunities in different healthcare settings. For example, if you were previously in a hospital, consider roles in clinics, nursing homes, or other healthcare organizations.
• Provide character references. If your professional references hinder your job search, consider providing character references from individuals who can vouch for your qualities and work ethic. This could be a supervisor from a previous job, a mentor, or a colleague.
• Address the poor references. If possible, have a conversation with your previous employer about the references they are providing. You have nothing to lose. Seek clarification on the information they are sharing and discuss ways to present a more balanced picture of your skills and abilities.
• Build a positive online presence. Some employers check social media, including LinkedIn. Ensure that your online presence, including professional networking sites like LinkedIn, reflects your expertise, achievements, and commitment to professional growth. Consider asking colleagues for recommendations on these platforms.
• Be persistent and patient. Job searches can be challenging, especially after a difficult situation. Stay persistent, be patient, and continue refining your approach based on feedback and experiences.

I wish you the best,

Nurse Beth

[Leader25, ASN, BSN, RN]

Find a position without meds and avoid prison.