NC RNs PLEASE HELP

Published

If you are or have been in NCBON alternative program and got restrictions esp. not passing narcs where did you find work ? I am willing to move, relocate or just comute. So if you have found work or know of a facility that will hire nurses with restrictions please respond. Thanks so much.

Specializes in PICU, ICU, Hospice, Mgmt, DON.
I am not sure why it is the way it is unless they assume that just because you havent abused or diverted narcs doesnt mean you wouldnt, but then the random urines would catch you. Also here all urines must be observed so you have someone looking at your junk while you are giving a sample. The tests are 76.00 a pop and i usually get 2 a month, so with not working, it is tough, but I'm sober and one day sooner or later a job will come my way.[/quote

Still speechless,

I thought Fl was rough but you poor sob's have us beat...we don't have to do observed urines..not yet anyway...Fl was one of the first states to begin an alternative program and I have always heard we are tough but just wow...NC is outrageous. It beats some of the states that don't have any programs at all tho, you just lose the license for good.

Out tests are 42.00 for uds another 42.00 if they add the etg...I have been tested as soon as 2 weeks and as long as 6 weeks apart...it really is random.

Have you tried looking at Case management? MDS coordinator in LTC? Dialysis? Intake for psych? All of my peer people are working in these areas...no narcotics involved...I got a job as soon as my contract went into effect in case management (I'll admit I was very lucky) and my manager really didn't care about the IPN--she had hired nurses in the program before..same with dialysis...it's known to be very IPN friendly.

Keep trying....good luck...feel free to PM me any time.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Hi,

I am in NC and found a job after about 5 months after having my restricted license back. I applied at places that, before everything happened, I wouldn't have thought of working there. DUMPS...and was rejected.

I found work as a consultant RN. Companies like Quintiles, PPD, Healthways, Drug Safety Alliance (DSA), etc. They won't make you rich in the short-term, but I was offered more for my knowledge there than the jobs were paying to clean up urine and vomit (around $28/hr). Some of the companies that I mentioned pay as much as $40/hr. Seeing that I was making $0 prior to applying, the money was welcome.

My life got better immediately. It took me all of a week to find 3 more people working there with restrictions...and I have spoken to several more since...including supervisors. Perfect environment for recovery...no drugs, able to test (urine screens), and there are jobs available. The company is much more interested in your loyalty and tenure than your past (as long as you are able to speak on the phone and gather good information).

I remember when looking for a job (and you have to get your butt up and get dressed every day or you will feel worthless) I swore that if a company gave me a chance, I would at least stay there for all 3 years and work hard to show that nurses in recovery can turn it around.

Keep looking. I know that it is hard to pay the money for testing, treatment, aftercare, license, gas, resumes, food...without an income, but the offer will come when you least expect it.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I live in NC and I am in the AP. I have restrictions and I have found it very difficult to obtain employment. I have had many interviews and all have went pretty well under the circumstances. The employers said they would hire me if it wasnt for your restrictions. Obtaining employment is the crux of the program for sure which Im sure many are aware . I remain positive and continue to work my recovery. I am thankful for a second chance. I just want to continue to progress and put this difficult period in my life behind me. I am wanting to network with other nurses in recovery who live in NC so if any one out there would like to do so that would be grreeeeeaaat. Peace and erase the hate or something like that.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I'm in the AP as well, I was very blessed and found a job quickly after being reinstated. There are many in my aftercare group who haven't been as fortunate. Just keep trying!!

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Hallelujah! So glad I found this post. I am an LPN in NC and also in the AP with the board. I have been job hunting for 18 months and nothing!! They love me until they learn about me being in the program! My case worker is always putting up road blocks or criticize every thing I do! I'm with you 100% and I need and want this to be a place to turn for advice! No you aren't the only one !! Any luck on the job hunt yet? -

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Im glad I found this site but it is scaring me. Im having to start the AP program and would like any information any NC nurses have as to what happened that got you in the program as well as what am I facing? Any advice.......

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in critical care, ER,ICU, CVSURG, CCU.

I'm in Texas, what worked for me and others was learning and doing MDS assessments in LTC facilities ....they (LTC), need the MDS assessment for reimbursement. Absolute no narcotic or other medication administration required, usually M-F day shift hours, It was a blessing to work off my three year stipulations.....

best wishes

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I lost my NC RN license in 2014. I then moved to IL which is my original state of licensure.

I have been going through random drug screens since 2/2016 and am scheduled to appear before the board of Nursing in Raleigh, NC on Feb 9th of 2017. I need a prayer or two please.

It helps me to read through all your posts. I, ironically enough, work as a prevention specialist in IL for a counseling center through the state. :eek: I have spent the last 14 years (before I lost my license) as an ICU/CCU RN with a spotless reputation. I was an excellent nurse. This has taken a toll on my self-esteem as I'm sure it does anyone's.

I almost didn't have the courage to fight.

I wish you all well and, when I get back to NC...to work as a nurse, I will come back and tell you who and where that I've found to offer a second chance to a good nurse. Hold your chins up. We are in this together and we must lean on each other now. God bless you all and thank you for posting.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I too am in NC and the request are insane. Best of luck NCtoILrecoveringRN, prayer your LRP in Feb. goes well. Let us(me..lol) know how it goes, Im suppose to go in March, if they deem my paperwork worthy.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Im in alternative program and have 3 months left. Took 2 years to find a job. Never gave up and found a job I have been at for 2 1/2 years. I work oin dialysis. Keep pressing forward and don't give up. If you put in the leg work it will pay off. Stay positive. Oh, been in program since 2012 and out of work since 2011 for self reporting 2 DUI's.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Self reporting 2 dui's. I havebeen in program since 2012. Have 3 months left. Work in dialysis for over 2 years now. All worthit. I ber when i first started the program i was overwhelmed. I knew I would do everything they told me to do. I climed many obstacles to get where i am today. I had no money or drivers license. i made it and encourage u to keep going. Hold your chin up and be proud. The program made me stronger and a better person. It was a little embarassing at first but please dont be. The BON deals with e in our situation all the time. To the nursing board we are just a number. Everything needs to be yes mame and yes sir. Do what they say and be proud of yourself.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Dialysis is your best bet. No narcotics.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Join the Discussion