Some insight on what to expect during a BON formal hearing.

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I posted my situation in another thread, mainly to vent, with no direct question asked, but now knowing that I will go before the BON for a hearing, I'd like some insight into what to expect.

My situation explained as quickly as possible: LPN for over 20 years with not a single write-up for ANY REASON, same employer 14 years as private duty nurse. For the first time in my carreer, I was Asked to take drug test b/c CS came up missing, I refused and resigned b/c 4 days prior to this, I smoked marijuana (twice, 1 week apart) for the first time in 15 years, knew I would test positive, and would not have that on my record. This was all reported to the BON. I was given the option of the drug screening /monitoring program for a year(among other stipulations), or a formal hearing. I did not accept their program and chose the hearing instead. Still waiting on a hearing date.

So what process should I expect during the formal hearing? I have a consult with an attorney pending, but would like to hear it from an actual nurse!

Thanks so much!

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*venting* I turned in my Do Not Accept letter 2 weeks ago with the anticipation of a formal hearing to be scheduled. I just now received ANOTHER offer to settle my case informally. I plan to turn down this offer and I am actually looking forward to a formal hearing. If I accept this I would be agreeing that I am "habitually intemperate or addicted to the use of habit forming drugs". I smoked marijuana twice in 15 years! The only drugs I've taken were prescribed and never abused. I've never had ANY diciplinary action against me, ever. I've never been arrested, had a speeding ticket or been in a fight. I shouldn't have smoked and refusing the drug screen b/c of that didn't look good either, I understand that, but to be made out like I'm a habitual drug addict with a bad temper is insane. I'm at the point now that this whole thing has come down to defending my character. I'm so done with nursing altogether. And I do have a call in to an attorney. Thanks for allowing me a platform to vent.

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Specializes in ER, TRAUMA, MED-SURG.

Oh man! I would hate to be in your shoes. I don't really have anything to offer - I live in Louisiana but never had to go to a formal hearing.

Good luck with the hearing - definetly talk with the attorney asap. Sending you positive thoughts.

Anne, RNC

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Good Luck, I hope you have a good Nursing Attorney!

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Happy to say that I started a non-nursing job as a Para-Educator with a local Elementary school. Holidays, weekends and summers off. I'm so excited and it's such a relief to be out of Nursing altogether. Sometimes it takes a horrible situation to open your eyes to something that makes you truly happy.

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