Nurses smoking weed?

[bunnynurse]

Hey nurses,

In honor of "420" tomorrow... As a health-care professional, what are your thoughts on smoking weed? Any nurses out there that smoke a joint here and there?

Cheers.

[MassED, BSN, RN]

Not just picking on you because a number of individuals in this post have echoed similar sentiments. With all due respect, and while I understand it is yours (and others) opinion, I don't totally agree with that opinion. If considering casual use such as an occasional glass of wine with dinner vs an occasional joint I don't know that one is more/less dangerous in general. However alcohol is legal across the country, whereas marijuana is not, so from a sociological POV, right or wrong, for a casual drinker/user, alcohol is generally a "safer" option.

If we're talking about an unhealthy relationship with alcohol vs marijuana there is no denying the psychological/social ramifications of alcohol use; however I wouldn't be so quick to say similar issues might not be possible with chronic marijuana use. Research is limited, but there have been a couple recent studies that point out possible problems with marijuana (as legalization increases we'll learn more about it's safety in short/long term use).

For example, one study showed that while short term use of marijuana may help some with anxiety,

much like a benzo does or an opiate does for pain, long term use has the potential to do as benzos/opiates do in potentiating the anxiety/pain. Other research has linked an increased incidence of chronic marijuana use from teens to early adulthood with a an eventual dx of schizophrenia (I'm not implying causation, just a link).

Someone also mentioned use in PTSD. Again, it may help with some symptoms as very limited research indicates, but there is at least 1 study where it was noted that there's an increased incidence of violence among users. If not mistaken there was recently approval for a nationwide study of our vets and marijuana use so hopefully we'll learn more about the risks/benefits.

Having said that, I also readily admit there are a number of studies that support its use (in a number of its derivatives) for a number of medical conditions (e.g., chronic pain, easing SEs with chemo, asthma, IBS, Crohn's, glaucoma, etc.).

Working with veterans, I was often asked my opinion about marijuana. While I wouldn't encourage their use I would never chastise someone for wanting to try it. If it works for you, it works for you, but I'd present the potential risks/benefits in as unbiased a manner as possible. I look at its use similar to use of an antidepressant for people with a bipolar disorder--research is very mixed, but for any given individual it might prove quite helpful.

No matter what 1 thinks about virtues (or evils) of marijuana, it is not safe for all and I just get a bit uncomfortable when we as medical professionals start saying that 1 substance of abuse is safer than another; use in spite of known consequences is problematic no matter the name of the substance, not that there might not be some degree of accuracy in that statement, but that it delivers the wrong message to those who are seeking our medical opinion.

Just a few points to make. For working in an ER - I always tell patients "no one has ever overdose from Marijuana." Most of our violent, hostile, horrible patients are almost always drunk or intoxicated with Alcohol and another substance.

It is ridiculous to imply any violent tendency when you are discussing a study of the effects of Marijuana with a person with PTSD, for example, who may already have anger issues or another psychiatric problem. That study, wherever that may be, may not be taking into account their anger or possible violent tendencies PRIOR to the Marijuana. That is likely a skewed study.

I wouldn't ever advise anyone to SMOKE marijuana or cigarettes. Smoking anything is toxic to your lungs and body. Nicotine has no positive benefits.

Alcohol and Marijuana honestly should not even be mentioned in the same sentence if you're discussing "dangers." You can die from Alcohol intoxication, you cannot die from Marijuana intoxication. You would never need to be intubated from a Marijuana "overdose," you will from alcohol if you are unconscious and unable to maintain your airway. Alcohol abuse destroys your body and leads to multiple organ damage, to include liver damage, esophageal varices, just to name a few awful conditions. There is no comparison.

As for the link of Schizophrenia, those young adults who are predisposed are due to genetics, not to Marijuana.

[Abguy]

If you live in Colorado where it is legal, are nurses allowed to use it?

[MassED, BSN, RN]

I am currently out on disability, for 4 years now. (my license is currently on hold due to medical reasons). I have persistent nausea & vomiting, myasthenia gravis, SLE, and a whole other slew of medical problems. The poly-pharmacy is a huge problem and concern of mine, at one point (prior to MMJ) I was on 33 medications daily, most of them 4 -6 times a day. Since starting MMJ I have been able to stop 7 prescription drugs. You can NOT tell me that you really think the side effects from those 7 medications are equal or less harmful than use of MMJ (especially if you knew how many liver and kidney complications some of those medications have caused me).

Prior to getting ill, I still have been a supporter of marijuana - I think acetaminophen has potential to be far more harmful and dangerous than marijuana does. I get that from the countless number of teens I have seen all around the country (traveling ER nurse) who took a bottle of tylenol for attention seeking. Close to 20% of them having ended up in the PICU and on the liver transplant list. I also believe that as marijuana legalizing and use increases, that we will see a decrease in prescription drug abuse. A decrease in prescription drug use & abuse could have a significantly positive impact on the current issues we face with heroin. Take a moment to think about the cycle that is commonly seen with (now) heroin users.

And as a side note: The more legalization of marijuana allows for legitimate studies to be done. This is important for everyone, but I believe will allow for peace of mind for those who may have misinformed bias against it. Additionally this could allow for deeper studies to see if any illnesses or diseases can be reduced or even eradicated - information we will never have without proper studies and studies with a substantial number of patients (vs. the bare minimum).

I see a lot of misinformation roaming around on this post and thought I would provide some active bills and laws in CONGRESS that have been introduced or passed.

Ending Federal Marijuana Prohibition Act of 2015 S.2237 S.2237 - 114th Congress (215-216): Ending Federal Marijuana Prohibition Act of 215 | Congress.gov | Library of Congress

Respect State Marijuana Laws Act of 2015 H.R.1940 H.R.194 - 114th Congress (215-216): Respect State Marijuana Laws Act of 215 | Congress.gov | Library of Congress

Regulate Marijuana Like Alcohol Act H.R.1013 H.R.113 - 114th Congress (215-216): Regulate Marijuana Like Alcohol Act | Congress.gov | Library of Congress

Marijuana Tax Revenue Act of 2015 H.R.1014 H.R.114 - 114th Congress (215-216): Marijuana Tax Revenue Act of 215 | Congress.gov | Library of Congress

Veterans Affairs (VA) rule changes http://www.nytimes.com/2010/07/24/health/policy/24veterans.html

Compassionate Access, Research Expansion, and Respect State Acts of 2015 (CARERS) H.R.1538 https://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/house-bill/1538

Congress Clears for State Laws https://www.aclu.org/blog/speak-freely/congresss-intent-clear-states-can-legalize-medical-marijuana-without-violating

Federal Ban on MMJ ends http://nationalpainreport.com/congress-quietly-ends-federal-ban-on-medical-marijuana-8828775.html

Marijuana Guidelines for Banks http://www.nytimes.com/2014/02/15/us/us-issues-marijuana-guidelines-for-banks.html

Compassionate Access Act H.R.1774 https://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/house-bill/1774

Here also are some sites with up to date information via state & federal laws, employee/employer law suits over wrongful termination, and other resources.

Marijuana Report for Workplace http://themarijuanareport.org/category/marijuanaworkplace/

Marijuana Facts Sheets http://themarijuanareport.org/fact-sheets/

Marijuana Resource Center for State Laws https://www.whitehouse.gov/ondcp/state-laws-related-to-marijuana

National Conference of State Legislatures http://www.ncsl.org/research/health/state-medical-marijuana-laws.aspx

Mentioning polypharmacy, I watched this excellent Chris Bell documentary "Prescription Thugs" on the Pharmaceutical industry (He has two, one was on Steroid use in sports "Bigger, Stronger, Faster"). Wow, so scary how Statins can cause IMPOTENCE in men and that one (big) company also produces VIAGRA. Anything we can do to pull down the veil on medications with horrible side effects, the better.

[AlphaM]

Saw this and it made me think of this thread

I failed my school drug test. Am I finished forever? https://allnurses.com/general-nursing-student/i-failed-my-1048574.html

[kbrn2002, ADN, RN]

If you live in Colorado where it is legal, are nurses allowed to use it?

Short answer, no. Slightly longer answer, as long as it remains federally illegal I doubt if any of the states BON will support recreational use by nursing.

[canigraduate]

When I lived in Denver, it was legal on the state level, yes, but employers still screened you and refused to employ anyone who tested positive for marijuana. It's still illegal federally. Most employers screen for nicotine, now, too, and refuse to employ those who use it, even though it is not illegal at all.

The employers in CO are actually more stringent with drug screens because they believe that the pothead culture will cause employees to slip up more. (How do I know? I asked a few.)

As far as there being no repercussions from overdose, that is not true. Here is a link: http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/833828-overview

Here is a quote if you don't want to read the whole thing:

"Acute cannabis toxicity results in difficulty with coordination, decreased muscle strength, decreased hand steadiness, postural hypotension, lethargy, decreased concentration, slowed reaction time, slurred speech, and conjunctival injection. Large doses of THC may produce confusion, amnesia, delusions, hallucinations, anxiety, and agitation, but most episodes remit rapidly. Chronic users may experience paranoia, panic disorder, fear, or dysphoria."

Frankly, I don't want you handling my care if you are suffering from amnesia, delusions, hallucinations, etc. I really don't want you coming at me with needles if your hands are unsteady and your coordination is off.

You may use the argument that cannabis is better than alcohol, spaghetti, or whatever, but it doesn't matter. It is still dangerous in and of itself.

I have seen people put forth the argument that driving drunk is worse than driving high. Again, it doesn't matter. Driving high is still dangerous in and of itself. Slowed reaction times and decrease in coordination are not qualities I admire in drivers, especially when I watch them weaving while they're trying to roll a joint. (Oh, Denver...) If you're so stupid that you don't know to pull over, you're too stupid to drive.

If you use MJ medically and responsibly, good for you! That's awesome. I have no beef with you. I actually applaud you for trying to find something that works for you. Just don't expect to do that and be a nurse.

[AnonBSN]

I do smoke weed. I smoke everyday. I have smoked since I was 15. I grew up in Canada where every other person has a plant in the vegetable garden. My grandparents smoked it for their cancer. My aunt smokes it for her migraines. My uncle smoked it for his brain cancer. My father eats it due to his hepatitis C.

I personally do not see anything wrong with responsibly using marijuana. I currently smoke a bowl every night to help me fall asleep. I have PTSD after being beaten by my stepfather for 12 years of my life and if I don't smoke I have intense night terrors. I also smoke marijuana when I get migraines. I also take ibuprofen and curcumin, practice yoga and exercise regularly. Sometimes Fioricet works better with some Reglan. Sometimes, nothing helps.

I do not drink alcohol, it just makes me nauseous. I have a BSN, have been nursing for more than 10 years, and I am a charge nurse at one facility and on the trauma team at another. I am a happily married man of 12 years, I have paid for my house in full and I am so close to paying off my student loans.

What I am trying to say is, I am a regular guy, the nurse working next to you in the code blue. I have never gone to work high, nor have I gone to work drunk, unshowered or intentionally late. You would never guess I smoke marijuana. What I do on my personal time is just that, personal. Say what you will, but I have but one life to live, and I will do it on my own terms.

[Bruce_Wayne, ASN, RN]

Not worth losing my license over.

After I retire, who knows what I'll put in my garden.

[Horseshoe, BSN, RN]

I do smoke weed. I smoke everyday. I have smoked since I was 15. I grew up in Canada where every other person has a plant in the vegetable garden. My grandparents smoked it for their cancer. My aunt smokes it for her migraines. My uncle smoked it for his brain cancer. My father eats it due to his hepatitis C.

I personally do not see anything wrong with responsibly using marijuana. I currently smoke a bowl every night to help me fall asleep. I have PTSD after being beaten by my stepfather for 12 years of my life and if I don't smoke I have intense night terrors. I also smoke marijuana when I get migraines. I also take ibuprofen and curcumin, practice yoga and exercise regularly. Sometimes Fioricet works better with some Reglan. Sometimes, nothing helps.

I do not drink alcohol, it just makes me nauseous. I have a BSN, have been nursing for more than 10 years, and I am a charge nurse at one facility and on the trauma team at another. I am a happily married man of 12 years, I have paid for my house in full and I am so close to paying off my student loans.

What I am trying to say is, I am a regular guy, the nurse working next to you in the code blue. I have never gone to work high, nor have I gone to work drunk, unshowered or intentionally late. You would never guess I smoke marijuana. What I do on my personal time is just that, personal. Say what you will, but I have but one life to live, and I will do it on my own terms.

That's all very nice, but in the US that can get you fired, your license revoked, and your livelihood taken away from you. Nice that you can live your life "on your own terms," but many of us here don't have that luxury. Some get away with it, of course, but others have gotten nailed for this. It's a risk. A lot of people have no problem with it at all in theory, but just cannot take the chance as long as others are depending on them to bring home the bacon.

[Slhengy]

Why do people assume that any and all drugs cause impairment? With regard to marijuana, most people put it in the same category as alcohol or opoids which is absolutely incorrect. Completely different drug and effect. Some drugs actually ENHANCE cognitive functioning such as stimulants.

Not enough research is done on marijuana and the brain, but in my opinion, a chronic marijuana user is perfectly safe on the road and competent to go to work in any profession under moderate doses. If anything, they drive extra slow and cautious because they are so paranoid about getting pulled over.

Living in Colorado and being around people who use Marijuana, I would have to agree about the chronic users statement. They function just as well and sometimes even better than most people. With that said, I personally don't use because I like my Italian margaritas too much.

Also people keep referring to smoking and smell of MJ, which is basically old school. A lot of people now do edibles and vap oil so the stated risks are not really valid. The hospital I work at just had a great conference on medical marijuana and how beneficial it is to use with a lot of chronic medical issues. Especially since Opioids are high on the radar of the government. I am glad to see people using more natural substances to treat health conditions.

[canigraduate]

Living in Colorado and being around people who use Marijuana, I would have to agree about the chronic users statement. They function just as well and sometimes even better than most people.

We obviously lived in different parts of Colorado.

I've never been around a chronic user (giggle!) who functioned better than anyone. The decades-long potheads I've been around are usually menial job workers who have 2-3 equally minimum wage roommates or an equally pot headed spouse.

They all have been low-performing people who had problems keeping a job. Also, a few of them were self treating psych issues. Some were suffering from PTSD (Vietnam, y'all, I am getting old).

It didn't really help the PTSD so much in the one guy, he thought the Viet Cong was coming after him in the foothills of NC. Kinda sad.

The marijuana users I know are NOT fun to be around in between doses. AT ALL.

[csheets123]

with working in a pedi home health, I 1/2 wondering when heading home if I should stop and buy a drug test to check myself.