Recent Graduate Nurse- failed pre-employment drug test

[Nursing0597]

Hi, I am a recent graduate nurse, I accepted an offer for a job contingent on that I passed my NCLEX, which I have yet to take. I went in for an appointment for the job and was drug tested, which I failed, and they sent off for further testing which I know will also likely come back positive, but I am still waiting on the final results. I made a stupid stupid mistake and I feel awful about it, but now I am unsure of what I should do now. I'm aware that I will not get this job, but I want to avoid this information becoming public knowledge, which I know it will likely be if it is reported to the BON or DOH. Is it best to rescind my offer to the company now since I know I'm going to fail to try to avoid this, and is it even worth getting my license now? I just don't want to ruin my entire life and future of any employment in any field because of one mistake I made. 

[LMRN2003, MSN, RN]

First off, don't beat yourself up for this. You are not a bad person or bad nurse because you failed a drug test. There are many factors at play here. I'm not sure what you tested positive for, but please remember that technically, etoh is also a "drug.” Imagine how many people would have a "positive" etoh test if they were tested!???? You need to give yourself a break. I've never encountered this situation, personally, so others may have more guidance, but I just wanted to provide my thoughts.