TPAPN nurse having hard time finding work

backtowork · May 30, 2012

Hi RenieRN and welcome to the fold. There are lots of posts on this forum regarding this subject and many of them specific to TPAPN. To summarize, these are the things I gleaned, when I was looking for work, that helped me be successful:

1. Avoid giving too much info to HR whenever possible..do not lie, but be vague with HR..if you have to answer a question that relates to TPAPN on the application, say you will discuss it with the nurse manager in person. Getting past HR is our biggest hurdle.

2. Big major hospitals are not TPAPN friendly in the DFW area, as I and others found out in this process. You may need to look at LTC or dialysis for employment. Call centers, insurance nurse..think outside the box.

3. If you land an interview, go with a statement, already typed up, that explains your circumstances to give to the nurse manager...Focus on the positive..how much you have learned and gained from your experience in recovery and all the safety nets that are in place.

4. Be prepared for a lot of "no,s" and stay positive and focused. You will find a job..maybe not a dream job..but a job that will get you through this and keep you in a paycheck.

Hope this helps..feel free to PM me if I can help in anyway.

RenieRN · May 30, 2012

Thank you back to work. This information is helpful. I thought based on my resume I was just undesirable (suprisingly) but as time went on realized maybe its starting in HR since I could not even get a callback. I will start thinking more 'outside the box'. Again, thank you. If you don't mind me asking, did you also have to do a Healthcare Profession Recovery Program?

Trauma Columnist · May 31, 2012

Dialysis is very recovery-friendly as there are no narcotics, and usually there is another RN present in the building.

backtowork · May 31, 2012

No I never dealt with TPAPN. I was reported directly to the board. My situation is a little different in that I MUST give narcotics as part of my board order and also work under the supervision of another RN. I have to call in to First lab every day for drug testing and I had to take 4 classes as well. The true recovery part of program was not mandated by the state..it is something I did myself with the help of NA/AA and a private doctor, great friends, and family before I even met with the board. I work at an inpatient hospice that is fully aware of my board order and circumstances. They have been very supportive of this process for me.

DolceVita, ADN, BSN, RN · Jun 4, 2012

Hi,

I chair a Caduceus meeting in WI. The State PAP coordinators in WI are generally available to speak with and describe the program immediately following interviews. Obviously they do not give a reference.

The most positive thing an employer gets with you is that they have someone who is monitored and a known quantity. You have accepted your problem and have taken the steps. In WI you are monitored up the wazoooooooo. So by all means be humble but be positive.

Many employers have contempt prior to investigation. They worry about what the supervision and paperwork looks like etc. I have observed many nurses struggle to get a job but then have great success. Hospitals and travel nursing are not big takers.

Keep going!!

Dolce Vita

mojo798 · Aug 13, 2013

I know this is an old post but I can relate to this! It's been a chore to find another job after my initial job let me go. My direct supervisor was very willing to help me and work with me however his boss was completely unwilling. Discrimination? I still don't understand how they can get away with it!

nowim clean · Aug 14, 2013

Find a Caduceus meeting in your area. There will be nurses and doctors there make a network of friends and be willing to work as a nurse for minimal pay. Remember it is better to work for 10.00 an hour and get your time completed than to not work at all and still be under contract. You will find something it will not be easy , but it will come.