Will my past hurt me in school or in getting a job?

bonjoduea · May 18, 2005

I will be starting nursing school in the fall for their 2 year program (ADN). We just had orientation and I'm so excited. Over the summer we need to have a medical exam completed before fall classes start. I am wondering and concerned if the fact that I was in an outpatient treatment center for an alcohol problem five years ago will hurt me.
I don't drink now and it was really at my husband's request that made me go at the time - now, ofcourse, I'm glad I did it for me- I learned a lot!!) - In-other-words - I was there voluntarly - not due to a criminal issue (DUI, etc.)
Also - once I get out there applying for jobs - will this be a factor? Does anyone have any experience with this or know someone who does???

I don't think it will hurt you as long as you are sober now and being completely honest with them. But I wonder if anyone has any experiences with being monitored with working with the narcotics due to this in their history? Keep a "stiff upper lip" and keep up the good work in being sober you should be proud of yourself, it takes courage...

pricklypear · May 18, 2005

Congratulations!! My advice to you would be to be totally up front with the BON...IF they ask. I can't remember if they asked questions about voluntary treatment unassociated with criminal activity. Just answer the questions honestly. I don't think I would volunteer anything if you are not asked. Either to your school, the BON or a future employer. It's none of their business. What does it matter? It would be like having to report that you were treated by your doctor for depression in 1986. You did nothing criminal, and that if the big question in the end. It's not like your voluntary treatment will ever come back and bite you - it's confidential. Take my advice with a grain of salt, though. There are many people on this board with waaaay more experience with the BON than me, hopefully they will help you out.

z's playa · May 18, 2005

I don't see how its anyone's business if you had a drinking problem. Why is it relevent? What are they going to do? Discriminate against you by watching you like a hawk? Limiting your access to the narcs? I have a huge problem with this and I've never had a problem along those lines. Thank gosh there's no such questions like that here.

Z

crjnursewarrior · May 18, 2005

I agree with the other posters...it is not really anyone's business. I don't recall it being a question on any application to sit for your boards and it's not on a job application, usually. They ususally only ask you about criminal activity. If you have none of that you shouldn't have anything to worry about. The fact that you went there and do not drink now is the key important thing. If you don't bring it up, I can't see why anyone else would. Best Wishes! :)

kmchugh · May 18, 2005

I'll add my agreement. The only way a drinking problem becomes an issue is if you were still drinking. You aren't. In fact, you have a five year sobriety track record. Congrats. You have done well. Keep on your path.

Kevin McHugh

Tweety, BSN, RN · May 18, 2005

Good luck to you and congratulations on your recovery.

I would keep this bit of information to yourself. People aren't understanding of alcoholism/addiction and can be very judgemental. Don't tell your fellow students either.

Good luck.

bobnurse · May 18, 2005

Nobody will know anything about your rehab experience unless you tell them. They only do a background check into convictions. So unless you were arrested and got a felony or misdemeanor your in the clear. You dont have to tell them anything. Its none of their concern.........