May lose my license :(

[kentucky_RN]

I am so worried because my license is on probation and I had to take a drug screen and I tested positive for alcohol. I did not know that they really cared about alcohol unless I was drinking on the job. I had to pay to have a MRO review my drug screen and they failed me. I am a nurse in KY and I love being a nurse and I love my job. I am so worried they are going to suspend my license over this. I need advice on how to get through this. If I lose my license I feel like I have nothing. Nursing is the only thing that I am good at. I just need to talk:scrying:

[TazziRN, RN]

Call me stupid, but is there a rule about drinking ETOH off duty, providing you are not under the influence? I TRY to drink a small glass of red wine before bed every night (sometimes skip a few nights). I don't think any agency should be able to mandate what a nurse can legally do off-duty if it doesn't affect their work.

Some places require that you not consume alcohol within a certain time frame before your next shift, like 8-10 hours. This is to ensure that you are not under the influence at all. There are other professions that require the same, like flying, where there needs to be no doubts.

Nurses on probation who must submit to drugs screens, however, are prohibited from drinking alcohol at any time.

[Tweety, BSN, RN]

Good advice above. This is all we can offer. The issue is between your BON, your employer and yourself. Good luck.