One day at a time

[Austin12]

We do recover and with the God of our understanding, we will survive.

In retrospect, I tell myself that I would have done it all differently, but the truth is I needed my life to unravel the way that it did. I have a greater respect for not only my profession but MY life. What is consequences without self-realization. That was the greatest gift that I obtained through my recovery and these trying moments.

I understand this is a difficult, trying time but this too shall pass. I speak from experience. I applied to jobs and many doors were closed. When I almost lost faith, my sponsor kept me focused and humbled. What a thin line between humility and humiliation. Gratitude is embedded within the foundation of that thin line. Furthermore, gratitude is easy to display when life provides instant gratification but keep in when our harsh reality presents itself as well. Don't let your arms become fatigued; keep knocking... eventually someone will answer.

Some tips:

1. Don't send in a cover letter stating your situation

>>>>>>> most employers don't verify licensure until after the interview. To allow them to judge you from paper is irrational.

2. Upon a given interview, your explanation for your restrictions should be last unless asked.

>>>>>>> don't allow your prospect employer make a decision before a rapport is made. Sale your skills, your commitment to gold standard care.

3. When you finally explain your involvement in the program, be short, concise and what you've learned.

>>>>>>> Don't go into detail unless they ask you. "I want to be open with you as possible, the reason that I'm no longer employed at ----- is because I tested positive for ---- during a random drug screen. I've been in a disciplinary program since ----. However, this situation has not only made me a better person with a better perspective."

4. That last question. Why should we hire you?

>>>>>>> they have given you a chance to sale yourself and permission to be confident.

Challenge them. "If your an organization that prides yourself in delivering optimum care; if you not only just want to meet the bar but set it the gold standard, this is what I encompass and this is why you should hire me. Furthermore, we all, as nurses, may look alike on paper and, truly, some may look better than me on paper; however, when it comes to delivering patient care I am just as good as everyone and better than most."

My first job back into nursing was corrections. I remain PRN there. I am a part-time psych supervisor and I work full time in the ED as well. I have a 18 months left in the program. I say that to say ...Our past does not define us; it is a mere extension of who we are that makes us better equipped for life on life terms. I hope this provided faith for someone. God bless

[SouthernPoint]

Amazing said.

[10yearnurse]

Thank you for that. I am still looking and I have applied at every single place in Austin and surrounding areas to no avail. I am getting severely depressed and I'm on my last string. :-(

[Cat_lady83]

Try applying at Austin State Supported Living Center. We need RN's and LVN's for all shifts badly. It's a state job with good benefits and there are other TPAPN nurses here. They're willing to give 2nd chances to good nurses. Go to the HHS website or apply in person at the job center here on campus. They gave me a chance and I was promoted after 5 months on the job.