Just signed termination paperwork-need guidance

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Specializes in Psych/Procedural.

Hi everyone. I was reported by another RN at work for suspicious behavior, was approached on the job, and admitted to stealing medications for personal (IV) use. I just signed my termination paperwork and was told to report to the BON. I have a history of addiction and have been to inpatient treatment before but this is the first time I've ever been fired from a job. I know my next step is to self-report and inquire about the Peer Assistance program (I'm in Oklahoma). I guess more than anything I'm just looking for support and guidance. I feel totally hopeless right now and can't stop wondering how I'm going to pay my bills and what I'm going to do for a job. I'm also two semesters away from graduating from NP school so I'm assuming I won't be able to continue because of clinicals. I'm overwhelmed and don't know where to begin. Does anyone have suggestions for finding a job? I don't really know how to approach the whole having a bachelor's degree but not working as an RN thing. Any information regarding Peer Assistance in Oklahoma?

Thanks

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Just reaching out to you in support. I know it seems as though all is lost, but it's not. I won't try an pretend that you aren't facing an uphill battle, because you are. But I will tell you that if you put down the drug, you never need to feel this way again.

You are not the first RN going through school to go through this. A nurse in my group was in CRNA school when she overdosed at work. Her school is on hold for now and she's focusing on getting through her IPN contract, but she's doing very well. There is HOPE.

I don't know a lot about searching for employment while waiting to hear from the BON. I do know that nurses do it. It might help your case and your recovery if you look for work where the narcotics load is low or nil (dialysis). There are also several avenues here in Florida ( I know you aren't in Florida ), like our Poison Control center, where you can use your degree but not need to use your license.

Take a deep breath... You are fearfully and wonderfully made, just as you are. You are not what you did. Please feel free to ask for support here often.

Persephone

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Oh honey...

I was in the same spot as you five years ago. IV abuse, caught, fired. Shame. I had one class left in NP school and then clinicals with a 3.9 gpa.

You can get through this. Addiction is a horrible way to live. You are smart enough to know you need to get away. It has had its hooks in you before. I hope this is the last time.

Reach out to lawyer, things seems to go smoother that way. Don't say a word more than you have to. Saying too much has hurt many a nurse. Give yourself time and think carefully about what you do next.

Get into treatment. I went into a voluntary outpatient session which was a joke compared to what I had been doing to myself. I was too afraid to get the help I actually needed. I didn't know if it would make me look 'worse.' How messed up is that??

Know that you have support here. Non judging true support.

Virtual hugs!!!

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Specializes in Psych/Procedural.
14 hours ago, berdeenbird said:

I was in the same spot as you five years ago. IV abuse, caught, fired. Shame. I had one class left in NP school and then clinicals with a 3.9 gpa.

Thank you for your support. What ended up happening with school for you? Were you able to finish?

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The board took three years to get to me. One year to find a job. 8 months into working again.

Most schools (including mine) will not take a student with an encumbered license. I reached out to them and they couldn't tell me if the previous work will count.

I am not sure if I will pursue it or not..

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