Stealing drugs!! what's your opinion?????

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I was just talking to a woman I work with about this today. But it seems like we are always hearing about nurses that are stealing narcotics from hospitals or other facilities. It has happened twice this year at a hospital where I work which is a pretty good size hospital with a level 3 trauma center. Anyhow my question is with as controlled and counted as these drugs stay, how on earth can anyone possibly think they "might" get away with this?!?!? I mean, I understand some people get really desperate but that is just asking to have your nursing license taken away. What's your thought on the subject????

Specializes in Med-Surg.

I saw that happen here several years ago. They let go a nurse they suspected of taking a pack of percocet. Asked her if she took and of course she said no. They couldn't prove it. She had other problems with laziness so they fired her for that.

I guess they worry about lawsuits. But what about public safety. Why not drug screen the entire floor? If it was this nurse she's a danger.

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I have turned myself in to chemical dependency treatment. I can't believe it has come to this. I always thought I was " in control". HA! what a fool i was. I guess i owe all of you guys coming forward with your stories about this problem that runs through our profession. I am tired of being out of control and I want to take the wheel back and drive my life again. Thanks all for posts.

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I have heard of several instances where nurses would take the pain med themselves instead of giving it to the patient, therefore the narc drawer count is right on but the patients pain is not controlled!!! So what out for thepatients who are only in severe pain when a CERTAIN nurse is taking care of them.

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Specializes in Med-Surg.
Originally posted by pickleman

I have turned myself in to chemical dependency treatment. I can't believe it has come to this. I always thought I was " in control". HA! what a fool i was. I guess i owe all of you guys coming forward with your stories about this problem that runs through our profession. I am tired of being out of control and I want to take the wheel back and drive my life again. Thanks all for posts.

Congrats. It takes a lot of courage to do what you did. Best wishes.

I'm sure the others who have been there would gladly help you in any way. (Me too if you ever want to private message, but I'm thinking those who've been there would be of greater support.)

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Specializes in ED staff.

(((((((((((((((((((pickleman))))))))))))))))))))) you have a rough road in front of you but you can make it. We're all here to help support you :) Wendy

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Pickleman, what a tough and brave choice you have made. Hang in there, and let us know how you are doing. You will be in my prayers. Zudy

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We would not have to steal the ginger ale and oj, if we had time to eat/get some lunch.

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:) Good job Pickleman!!!!!!!! With you all the way!

Jenny

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:roll Lunch? What's that? LOL

Jenny

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Hey Pickleman, I'm glad you're able to seek help--like Lilgirl said, it's a rough road, but it's something you can do with the right guidance and support...It's so important to get help, but also, protect yourself as well--as in, be careful when it comes to dealing with the Board, if it gets to that point. It's a lot tougher transition if you have the Board hanging over your head at the same time.

You can do it and there IS support out there--I know I felt completely alone for well over 2 years--rural area and NO nurses in the area, but we are not alone, it just takes a little bit of searching as this is such a shameful situation that not too many nurses are shouting it from the rooftop.

If you need any help, support--anything, let us know--and hang in there!

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Congrats Pickleman!!.....You've already done the hardest part!!....admitting that you need help AND going and getting that help.......You get a standing ovation from me!!.....It is soooo hard to admit that you need help (at least it was for me!)....As nurses we are taught that we should be "superhuman" and NEVER have "issues" to deal with, that makes it pretty hard for us to seek help when we need it.......as Lemonhead said, be VERY careful if you are dealing with your BON.....Every state is different as to how they deal with "impaired nurses", some programs are extremely punitive and others more of an advocate for the nurse.....If you don't mind me asking, what state are you dealing with?....and how is your employer handling this??.....Please DO NOT feel obligated to answer this if it is uncomfortable, but it may help us to help you....I know Lemonhead and I have done alot of research as to how each states BON functions......You CAN do this!!.....You are begining a whole new life!!......Don't hesitate to ask any questions, EVEN THE ONES THAT YOU MIGHT THINK ARE DUMB ONES!.....The more info you have the better.....and if we don't have an answer we can sure try to find one.....Anyway, congrats again!!....Keep us posted!!

Originally posted by pickleman

I have turned myself in to chemical dependency treatment. I can't believe it has come to this. I always thought I was " in control". HA! what a fool i was. I guess i owe all of you guys coming forward with your stories about this problem that runs through our profession. I am tired of being out of control and I want to take the wheel back and drive my life again. Thanks all for posts.

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I never imagined this post would catch on this much, thank you everyone for your comments and stories.

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