Nicotine Testing

[NobleLeo]

So I would like everyone's opinion on this topic since it is becoming much more prevalent in the healthcare field to see hospitals with non-hiring policies of nicotine products. A little personal opinion is that I understand this policy because how can we as professionals educate our patients on the health risks of smoking and the benefits of quitting when we turn around and do it. However, quitting smoking is challenging and easier said than done.

I recently quit so I could apply to my dream job which has a 90 day smoke free before hiring. Which at this point I am past 90 days so I applied and recently interviewed and am currently waiting for a response. Most if not all of my friends are smokers and many of the places we go out to are smoking bars, smoke in the car, etc. I had not thought much about the effects of inhaling secondhand smoke but now that I am waiting to hear back I have been considering the effects of being in such enclosed spaces and have been making myself paranoid that the levels of nicotine/cotinine will have increased (since I was a former smoker). What are your opinions on being tested, my internet results have not been too helpful and I'm looking for some personal experience?

[Jules A, MSN]

It is my understanding that they can tell by the level whether you are actively smoking or not. For my own piece of mind I'd try to avoid the second hand "nose hits" if at all possible since this is your dream job. Good luck!

[amzyRN]

Congratulations on quitting smoking! It's a terrible foul habit that is extremely unhealthy. I don't really agree with the principals testing people for legal substances, especially since the advent of nicotine vaporizers (which I think are a better alternative to smoking for smokers who have a hard time quitting). But in this case, the fact that you quit smoking will definitely benefit you. I hope you get the job too!

[Coffee Nurse, BSN, RN]

Don't know how the testing works, just wanted to add my two cents and say congratulations as well :) I've watched and helped my mom and my boyfriend both try repeatedly to quit, so I have some idea of how hard it is. Well done you for kicking the cancer sticks, and I hope you get the job

[Clovery]

At a previous job, our healthcare benefits had optional nicotine testing. If you were nicotine free you were eligible for a discounted rate. A nurse I worked worth passed a urine test by quitting for just 1 week before taking it. How is this job testing for 90 days smoke free? A hair test?

I don't like the nicotine policies. As an ex-smoker, I still occasionally use nicotine replacement (gum, inhaler) to get me past difficult situations where I am triggered to smoke. I don't think I should be penalized for that.

[Kk3c]

I don't think it's fair to not hire someone because of being exposed to smoking and it shows up in the test. Most places even smoke free ones ask is there anyone who smokes around you and if you say yes they ask who and it's supposed to be noted on the paperwork.