Nurse addict asks "Should I just pursue a different profession?"

Dear Nurse Beth Advice Column - The following letter submitted anonymously in search for answers. Join the conversation!

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I was first licensed as an lpn and then RN in Illinois. Moved to Indiana for a NLC license. The Indiana license along with my NLC license was revoked. But my Illinois license is still active and is unencumbered. I only have an associates degree in nursing and no other formal education. I can still work as a nurse in Illinois, but my issue is I'm an addict and I'm wanting to stay away from narcotic dispensing roles. Can you give me advice on next steps? Can I get a msn without a license and teach or should I just pursue a different profession altogether. Thank you so much for your time. 

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Specializes in Tele, ICU, Staff Development.

You have an unencumbered nursing license, experience as an LPN and RN, and  sobriety. There is no reason you should quit nursing.

Since your Illinois RN license is active and unencumbered, you can still practice nursing in Illinois. If you want to stay away from narcotic dispensing roles, you could explore positions that don't involve medications like pre-op admissions, employee health, documentation integrity, case management, or roles that focus on preventative care or chronic disease management.

You might also want to consider nursing roles in mental health, public health, or education, where narcotics are less involved.

Get Your Degree

An associate degree somewhat limits your choices, and you will be surprised by the opportunities that a Bachelor's degree opens up for you, and even more so if you pursue a Master's!

Generally, to pursue an MSN you must have an active RN license. Additionally, teaching in nursing typically requires an active license as well. 

Good luck and best wishes on your recovery and career,

Nurse Beth

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