Just thinking about this.....

Published

I realize that no one can give legal advice here, but I am just wondering what your thoughts are on this.... I am currently in a monitoring program in Texas due to a positive pre-employment drug screen (Valium). I was not a RN when I took the drug screen, but I was a RN by the time the BON was notified. I am curious.... should I have been subject to disciplinary action at all since I was NOT a RN at the time of the drug screen???

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I technically have disciplinary action by being in HPMP--I was an applicant at the time, not an RN. So, my understanding is that if your intent is to be an RN and you have submitted an application for licensure, you are subject to disciplinary action, especially upon receipt of the license.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in LTC, assisted living, med-surg, psych.
I realize that no one can give legal advice here, but I am just wondering what your thoughts are on this.... I am currently in a monitoring program in Texas due to a positive pre-employment drug screen (Valium). I was not a RN when I took the drug screen, but I was a RN by the time the BON was notified. I am curious.... should I have been subject to disciplinary action at all since I was NOT a RN at the time of the drug screen???

Pardon me, but I think I'm missing something here. Did you have a valid Rx for the Valium?

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I am missing something as well. However, the only advice I could give is to call the BON and ask. I would think that it has something to do with the fact you are on a monitoring program.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

No, I did not have a prescription. Oh, and when I say "disciplinary action", I am referring to the monitoring program. It feels like punishment to me, even though it formally is not.

Thanks, wish_me_luck..... the intent thing makes sense. I think I will call my BON and ask.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

There are nurses who have gotten DWIs while in nursing school and still subjected to the monitoring program; therefore, I doubt that legal representation will help all. Tough it out and good luck.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in LTC, assisted living, med-surg, psych.
No, I did not have a prescription. Oh, and when I say "disciplinary action", I am referring to the monitoring program. It feels like punishment to me, even though it formally is not.

Thank you for your honesty, and don't worry, I'm not here to judge you. FWIW, those monitoring programs are often the same ones that nurses with mental illness are forced to participate in, so I can understand why it feels like punishment. But then again, MI isn't a crime, so in theory the programs aren't supposed to be punitive.

Anyone here have more in-depth information and/or personal experience with monitoring programs for this member?

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Join the Discussion