When do nursing programs do drug tests?

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What Members Are Saying (AI-Generated Summary)

Members are discussing their experiences with drug testing in nursing school and in their nursing jobs. Some members mention being drug tested before starting their program, while others were only tested for specific clinical placements or job offers. There is a consensus that if you are using drugs, it may be risky as a nurse, especially in situations where a drug test may be required due to an incident or suspicion of impairment. Some members advise stopping drug use to avoid potential consequences.

Is it when you get accepted or a bit before the semester starts? I'm applying for Fall, which is nine months away; when do you think they would make you submit a drug test?

Maybe a better question than when they do drug testing is when are you planning to quit using drugs? Based on this thread, you could get tested at the beginning, part way through, the middle, the end, never, or randomly. Doesn't seem to be of much help. What Would be helpful is to avoid the issue in the first place!

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I was only drug tested one time during NS, and that was for the only clinical site that required drug testing. I was tested for each nursing job, though.

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Specializes in Allergy and Immunology.

Never drug tested for any of my programs-LPN, LPN-RN, or RN-BSN.

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Specializes in Neonatal Nurse Practitioner.

You should probably stop using drugs now. Just to be safe.

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Specializes in Med-Surg.

We were drug tested the first month of the program and again at the beginning of the second year.

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Specializes in Psych/Mental Health.

None is required by my program. But some hospitals might require it if you're placed there for preceptorship or clinical. I never got tested until when I got my first job offer.

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Specializes in Mental Health.

You might want to reconsider your career choice if you are worried about random drug tests.

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Specializes in Cardiac Telemetry, ICU.

Random drug tests are possible. We were all tested by surprise as soon as they possibly could test us, though. Quit using drugs, and you won't have to worry.

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First week, most clinical placements require it. I would just be ready to be drug tested any time.

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Instead of worrying about when I'd kick your habit (if you have one) and avoid a lot of heartache later.

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Rionoir said:
You might want to reconsider your career choice if you are worried about random drug tests.

This. This. This.

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At my school's program, you're supposed to get tested before you start the program.

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