I'm so confused.......

[loerith]

I have posted on here previously about this, but need a new updated advice database. :)

I am a RN who works a clerical/supervisory job. I also have chronic pain and the only relief I get is from the Duragesic patches. To further complicate the matter; I am a recovering nurse.

I have 2 questions:

1) If I work while wearing the patch and am tested would I be considered impaired?

2) If I only use the patch on my days off, but would still test positive would this also be considered totally unacceptable?

Maybe I should just change fields.........I dunno.

Thanks,

loerith

[CSLee3, ASN, BSN, LVN, EMT-P]

Loerith..sorry you have chronic pain, no one should have to suffer like that. There are some modern techniques out there such as nerve blocks, baloon lifts in spine, stints, non-narcotic pumps, manipulation...etc. I'm sure you heard them all. However; we had a nurse kinda in the same boat, she took lortabs for migraines at work....bottom line is you are taking a narcotic..legally, but you cannot be expected to work to your fullest functioning level and most places will deny you access to work. They have to protect themselves and clients. Testing positive is no big deal if you have legal script, it is the issue of going to work "impaired". Good luck to you, hope you can find some relief for your chronic pain...thanks for bringing it to the table.

C

[loerith]

Actually I do believe I work at 100% of my potential when on the medicine and perhaps less than that when in pain. I may have my neurologist and internal med doctor examine me while on the meds just to have some documentation as to my mental status while on the Duragesic.

Thanks,

loerith