I am in school finishing my pre reqs for the health sciences program. There are two programs that I am REALLY interested in, but I'm scared...I have a history of substance abuse, namely opiates. I want to rehab for 35 days in 2003, stayed clean for almost 3 years and relapsed for 2 days. I have been clean since that relapse. So to be clear, I have been sober for 10 years now. I have never been arrested or convicted of any crimes. I know you all are a nursing Message community, but I like the way that you actually help and encourage each other!
The programs are ota and rrt. I've looked at the licensing applications for both in my state (both done by the same entity) and there is a question on there that asks if you have ever been to rehab and if you have ever been addicted to drugs or alcohol. I know that I have to be honest, I just want to know if this will keep me from getting a license. I am smart, determined, and above all, I am sober. That is something that I never imagined that I could be! I don't want to pay for my past forever.
I knew when I started back to school that I could never work as a nurse because I don't want to continually tempt myself, but helping people is ALL that I have ever wanted to do. I've worked as a mental health case worker for 8 years (the irony) and then as an activity director in ltc until I quit to persue school full time.
Any help or advice you can give would be greatly appreciated!
LCDC's do not keep records the same as a regular doctors office. I know this for sure because I cant get copies of my outpatient rehab because they no longer exist. Therefore there is NO PROOF THAT I EVER WENT! Meaning no one can find out that it ever even happened. Lucky for me I kept my own records but what I have is the only existing proof.
It was ten years ago. I would disclose it. I had a DWI and driving with a suspended license and they still let me into school for LVN and RN. If they deny you. Apply for another school and answer no to rehab.
It was ten years ago. I would disclose it. I had a DWI and driving with a suspended license and they still let me into school for LVN and RN. If they deny you. Apply for another school and answer no to rehab.
I spoke with the director of the program. I couldn't not disclose the past...its not who I am anymore. Secrets made me sick in the past. He asked around, made some calls to other program directors that he knows and he feels pretty sure that it's a non issue. He is going to contact the state board, without disclosing my name and see what they say. He says that from the information that he has gathered so far, another program had a student with similar issues, but they were still using and that person was issued a license. It was probably conditional, but they're practicing in the field.
I believe the Big Book says we don't have to fall on our sword. Remember, once you let the cat out of the bag you can't get it back in. Sounds like it's too late though... The cat's out. Hope it works out for you.
It's not the school that I have issue with. The state board is the problem. The application asks pointed questions about treatment for alcohol and/or substance abuse. I dont want to go to school for a year in a specialized program of they won't license me.
It's not the school that I have issue with. The state board is the problem. The application asks pointed questions about treatment for alcohol and/or substance abuse. I dont want to go to school for a year in a specialized program of they won't license me.
True, but you could have contacted the board anonymously yourself, without telling your school. They can't un-know that information now. I'm not sure I would have done that, is all I'm saying. Sounds a bit like falling on the sword.
harlant
7 Posts
LCDC's do not keep records the same as a regular doctors office. I know this for sure because I cant get copies of my outpatient rehab because they no longer exist. Therefore there is NO PROOF THAT I EVER WENT! Meaning no one can find out that it ever even happened. Lucky for me I kept my own records but what I have is the only existing proof.