What do you tell them during interview

Nurses Recovery

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I am in recovery. I was diverting and self reported in July. During innterviews I tell them I had a personal problem and self reported so I could get the help and support I needed. My contract allows me to continue working as a nurse but with restrictions. No narcs for the first 6 months, a work site monitor, random drug screens, meetings 3 time a week, plus other Dr, Addictionist, Therpist meetings. I have been on over 20 interviews and nothing was happening. Finally I interviewed at an endo clinic. I told them about my monitoring contract. I also told them I had a personal issue self reported etc. Well they offered me the job I was so excited. BUT....I never told them I diverted. My case worker did though and they recinded the offer, I lost the job. I am currently filing an appeal over my caseworker revealing my personal information. There company hand book and web site states our information is private. Regardless what I am looking for is what others have said. Has anyone admitted during an interview they diverted? Whats your thoughts on this?

I am so depressed over losing that job.The nurses at this clinic did not give patients any narcs. They had the Drs do that. All the nurses did was start IVs and educate the pts about the procedure. There wasnt even any nurses in the procedure room WOW it was perfect for me I would never be tempted. I explain my addiction to non addicts like I'm an alcoholic who worked in a bar and in order to stay clean I can NEVER work in a bar again. So the endo clinic was my job outside of the bar. no narcs no tempations in my face. outa sight outa mind so to speak. Oh don't get me wrong I am forever an addict and will forever need to work a program to stay clean. But having a job away from temtation does help a person stay clean.

So about what to say in an interview, do you tell all or tell just enough?????

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Specializes in Nephrology, Cardiology, ER, ICU.

Dialysis is very recovery friendly. Ive known multiple RNs who are recovering and work in dialysis - there are NO narcs even on the premises ever.

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Specializes in Critical Care, Psychiatric.

I recently completed TPAPN and on my interviews, I was always 100% transparent and honest. I told them what I did, how I regretted it and how I had changed. I got passed over for a few jobs but was able to find a job and successfully complete the program. You have to be honest. If someone seems interested, you need to tell them the whole story, how you are doing in your recovery ect. The addict is known for lying and being deceitful - it goes hand and hand with staying in addiction. There are people out there who will give you a chance but you need to be honest. Also try some of the psych hospitals, they are usually recovery friendly. When I was in IOP, there were two other nurses in class with me. We all found jobs at psych hospitals and one of them had diverted drugs. You may even come across a nurse manager who is a recovering addict and they will see right through you if you are not honest but will give you a chance if you come across as being sincere. Lastly, apply to every nursing home you can. I completed the program while working in LTC. I know for a fact that my DON hired me because I was an experienced RN who wouldn't be going anywhere for at least 1 year in facility that has extremely high turnover. Good Luck, you can do this!!! Keep us posted.

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Hi Learninglessons12,

Is there a chance I can email you directly. I have some questions as I am about to got through the same thing you just completed.

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Specializes in ER, TRAUMA, MED-SURG.

Good luck to u - I live in Louisiana and it was SO hard to find a job while in our state's program. I was always honest - but it was like u could see it in their eyes when I told them about diverting.

Anne, RNC

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Specializes in Main O.R. and CVOR.

hi learninglessons12, I saw in your comment above that you worked in LTC facility till you finished your monitoring contract. I have an interview at a LTC facility. do you have any idea how they will respond to my not working as a RN for the last 5 yrs

and having a criminal background? and, I have no LTC experience. only operating room.

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