AlabamRN

Thank you so much for your response. I'm definitely going to check out some treatment centers when I start my job search.

Thank you again! What a great response! It definitely feels great to be sober. I'm proud of myself for every day that goes by and I don't even think about having a drink. I can't wait till I can say, "I've been sober for twenty years". I have gone through intense therapy to explore the root of my inate desire to avoid experiencing certain feelings and emotions. That's the key to recovery. Figuring out WHY you're self medicating. Your right, Jack. Most people with a chemical dependancy usually starts as a coping mechism for some trauma. I believe rehabilitation works and nurses who have struggled with chemical dependacy deserve a change to re-acclimate themselves back into nursing after the have been giving the proper treatment. Being a productive member of society and getting to really help people through the profession of nursing does wonders for a recovering nurse's self esteem.

Thank you for your response, Jack! I've already signed a consent order so it's too late (I think) to talk to an attorney and the VDAP wouldn't do me any good because I've already been through treatment...and they do not offer any help with job placement. I really appreciate the suggestions though! I'm just nervous about bringing up the whole "I'm on probation" thing in interviews. I'm not sure how to approach it. I got these DUIs prior to becoming a nurse, so obviously I've had to explain myself in interviews and it's a bit unnerving, but I've always been offerred the job in the end. This is a whole different ball game because my license says "probation" on it. I don't have any medication restrictions, but I'm still so nervous about this upcoming job search!! Anymore advice anyone? B.K.

Hello all. I am new to these forums, but I think this might be a good place to get advice from experienced nurses. Here's my situation: I have been a nurse for about 2.5 years in the state of Georgia. I've never had any discipline imposed on my license despite the 2 DUIs on my criminal record. I'm a recvering alcoholic and have stayed true to my goals. The arrests took place in 2004 and 2007. I have been through treatment and have been forthcoming to the GABON about my situations. I have also had little difficulty finding jobs because I present myself well in interviews. I am moving to Alabama next month and I have been approved for an RN license with 12 months probabtion by the ALBON based on the 2 convictions. This makes me extremely nervous. I figured the older my criminal record got, the less I'd have to deal with it. I guess every state board has different rules and I am grateful for even a probationary license. I do have some questions though... Who would hire a nurse on probation? What is the best way to bring this fact up in an interview? Is there a program in Alabama to assist nurses in my position? Would I be a good canidate for an alcohol treatment center position because of my life experience? Is there anyone reading this that has any advce for me at all? FYI- I'm sober and proud to be so. I'm deparately trying to overcome the mistakes I've made in the past. I'm a kind and compassionate RN who's looking for a chance to prove myself. These past few years I've come quite far and I'm determined not to let this probation status hold me back. I just need a little help from my nurse peers. Thank you so much, B.K.