Positive alcohol test

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Was just informed I tested positive for alcohol. I knew I was as I relapsed in February. They took my license. Go before the board in September. Anyone know what I should expect.

What would be the benefit of getting legal counsel. I already admitted to breaking my agreement. I feel like maybe this is god trying to tell me I wasn't ready to be done with the monitoring .

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Specializes in Psych, Addictions, SOL (Student of Life).
Prepared for any consequences just want to know what to expect.

I don't know Nevada but I can tell you how this would be handled in California. You honesty admit to relapse and yes even one drink is considered relapse, you will likely have your contract extended. You may be referred to in-patient treatment which you will have to pay for out of pocket. I was onced advsied ( but never needed to follow it) that should I relapse and test positive I should go out an get royally schnocked and present at in-patient as needing detox so my insurance would pay for it.

They may allow you to do intensive out-patient but that's highly unlikely.Once you have treatment you will likely get another 3 years of monitoring. Are you connected with a 12-step program? Do you have a sponsor? If so start going to meetings and get those signed off as proof of you humility and acceptance of your disease. the 12-Steps may not be the only way to get sober but it seems to be the way the BON's want it done.

Good luck to you

Hppy

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Specializes in Complex pedi to LTC/SA & now a manager.

Legal counsel will protect your best interest and help protect your license. The BoN isn't for the protection of nurses but protection of the public. The BoN has the public's best interest at heart.

You can use the lawyer referral service at TAANA Executive Office - Home

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Thanks everyone!

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Just wanted to say that I have great life! I've come so far and not about to throw in the towel. God has big plans for me !

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Specializes in 15 years in ICU, 22 years in PACU.

A Missouri nurse came to work with alcohol on breath, got fired, signed contract with BoN to not drink, got called for urine test, tested positive for metabolite of alcohol, license revolked. Kansas finds out about it and revolkes Kansas license. You can read the court order and all the unfortunate details on Nursys. Beings as how it's public record and all.

BoN means business.

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Specializes in Psych ICU, addictions.
What would be the benefit of getting legal counsel. I already admitted to breaking my agreement. I feel like maybe this is god trying to tell me I wasn't ready to be done with the monitoring .

Legal counsel would help ensure that you get the fairest deal possible. They would know the legislation, they can present your side of the case impartially, and they would prevent you--or at least try to--from jumping at whatever stipulations the BON may decide to offer, regardless of how unfair or even impossible those stips may be.

Let's face it, the BON is not the nurse's friend, and don't think for one minute that they will be all sympathy and understanding if you could just tell them your side of the story. They will just see another addict nurse who fell off the wagon and who they must protect the public from. You need someone there fighting for YOU...hence, the lawyer.

As far as your own recovery...that's a separate basket of eggs. I would focus on that because without your recovery, nothing else is going to work out.

Best of luck.

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Specializes in Emergency & Trauma/Adult ICU.

Ultimately your health is more important that your nursing license. Wishing you well.

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If you wish to resume your nursing practice in the future, an attorney can help you to get the best possible outcome. The BON is NOT your friend.

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Any ideas on who! I'm in nevada.

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Specializes in Reproductive & Public Health.

Just wanted to say, I am seriously impressed with the amount of personal responsibility you are showing. I wish you the best of luck, both with your recovery and your nursing career.

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My recovery comes first in order to succeed I have to take responsibility. The last time I relapsed was in 2012 when I was told by the board I had 3 years monitoring after I had self reported drug and alcohol use in my younger days. (Before I even thought of nursing school.)I literally drank, drank, drank. This time around that didn't happen so maybe it was a test from god. I'm disappointed in my actions but maybe this was a way of telling me I wasn't ready. Maybe it was self Sabatoge! Either way I made a mistake and with that comes consequences. I am a great mom, great person and a great nurse. I will not allow the board to make me feel any different about my self. I know who I am. I would like to say that this support group has really help me the last few days! I appreciate it! Thanks everyone.

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