Possible BRN Program in California

[M2185]

Hello all,

I was recently reported to the board for an OD and received a letter for the diversion program in California. They did not urine screen me but I did admit to it in the record. I am thinking I will just choose diversion because I am a new RN and do not want to lose my license or lose in the hearing and have everything posted on the breeze website. Even though I have never done what I did before, (hence the OD), and am not an addict, however I feel this is the best option. Anyone have any thoughts or similar stories?? I have already spoken to my manager who is very supportive which is njce as well. I'm just really scared!!

[M2185]

Hi gnurse,

Yes I spoke with an attorney who specializes with the board but I can check a few other ones as well. It's just a big gamble which is terrifying...I don't want a permanent mark on my license I I'm still trying to figure out how to be able to pay for all of this...I am going to try and get disability as well. I will keep you all updated as I have until next week to make my final decision. I really appreciate your help and advice! Thank you!

[M2185]

Hello everyone,

I am about to start the Diversion program in CA due to an incident of overdosing for the first and last time on a drug I had never previously done. Since it was an illegal substance and it was injected my attorney said Diversion would be safer. I am a new RN, (only had been working one month before I was terminated for being honest with my manager due to my probation), and having a permanent mark on my career could end it before it starts! I feel like Diversion is my best option but I'm scared and already feeling depressed. Seeing you guys making it through gives me hope! Do you guys think I'm making the right choice? I'm already looking for non nursing jobs but it's hard out here where I live...in the desert. Any advice is greatly appreciated!

[gabby3]

I was in diversion in california and it is more restrictions inititially, but once you find a job its the same. When you are finished with diversion and want to move or become a traveling nurse you do not have disclose because its not past discipline.

Probation is past discipline in California. Yes probation is easier to deal with and you are able to work right away. But if you ever want to be a travel nurse and or move states, most will make you enter there states monitoring program because of past discipline.( even if you have completed probation and it was 20 years ago)...... Also it will show up on NURSYS forever.

Also it is very hard to further your career in nursing especially advance nurse practitioner. Most require clear license to enter there program. I completed my BSN while in diversion.

When I was in diversion most nurses were able to work within a year some within 6 months. Plus when you go for jobs your license is active clear. Human resources have become difficult to get around with anything on your license.

If you didn't do any thing wrong then get a lawyer, but you said you overdosed. That is a reason for monitoring to check for your safety as a nurse.

Gabby

[M2185]

Thank you Gabby,

I will be choosing Diversion because I want a fresh start after this and I want to further my nursing career as well. If this is what I have to do so be it. I'm going to try and get disability and perhaps work towards my BSN as well. I believe everything happens for a reason and maybe this was needed for me to understand what one mistake can do and how to become a stronger person and overcome it. Thank you for your advice. I am scared about doing this if it truly the best option and can save my career. I will let you all know when I start, keep you updated and continue to ask questions!

[Meriwhen, ASN, BSN, MSN, RN]

Moving to the Nurses in Recovery forum. Not stating you are or aren't an addict by moving it there...but in that forum, you will find posters who have gone through diversion programs and can offer you advice.

I would definitely consult with an attorney about your options as well, before committing to anything the BRN may offer you. The BRN is not the nurses' friend. And too often, nurses will blindly grasp at any straw offered thinking it will save their license, but without considering the impact it will have or even if they are able to meet the BRN's stipulations. You need someone who is advocating solely for you and will put your interests first. You can find attorneys versed in nursing issues and dealing with BRNs here: TAANA Executive Office - Home

Best of luck whatever you decide.

[M2185]

Hi Hppy,

I cannot send private messages but I am going to join the Diversion program to save my license! Can you message me on here? Since I cannot send private messages yet? Thank you!