[stupidone]

I smoked a joint at a party recently, an isolated incident, and was random tested a couple of weeks later. I was fired. what will happen?? I'm devestated because this is not a habit or even a desire of mine. I have never smoked anything or even drank alcohol. I don't even do Caffeine!! I was trying to gain weight and heard smoking would help. Now I'm in deep trouble! Today is the first day (in 3) that I've been able to even think about what happened without crying. Any advice for a newbie nurse? I'm LVN in Texas. Thanks to anyone who cares.
I see now who my true friends are.

[TomB]

Why were you randomly tested? That seems to be the big question here. Did they have probable cause to test you i.e., did they suspect you were using drugs? Are you in a diversion program already? I don't understand why they would test you.

I guess how much trouble you're in depends on whether or not your employer reports you to your state board of nursing.

Keep us informed,
Tom

[stupidone]

No reason for the testing. I've done well and been praised on the job I've done. I was chosen randomly, I was told, with several others. New facility; been open only 6 months. I passed the initial test and assumed I would pass this one. My employer told me they WERE going to report me to the Board. What do I do??I'm so scared. It's been 3 days and I've tried to research. Do I wait on the Board to notify me? Can I work in the meantime? Thanks for responding.

[stupidone]

No. I've never had any issues before. I've only had my license 1 and 1/2 years!!! I'm so new I'm devestated at what's happened. I can't imagine going to rehab for a measely one time smoker who got caught!!! Can it be?? This is crazy!

[Sailorbob]

I'm sorry you got caught up in the madness that comes of demonizing pot. Nursing Boards are generally not interested in pulling licenses but have a duty to deal with so-called impaired nurses. You may need to participate in some type of treatment or education program to keep a conditional license. I advise you to get a an attorney experienced in dealing with your Board; many actions before the Board are settled through negotiation.
Are you impaired if you smoke a joint the night before? That's another argument.
Personally, I'd rather see people tested for nicotine and dealt with compassionately for using a proven dangerous drug.
Good luck to you.

[AmandaWIRN]

Originally Posted by Sailorbob

Personally, I'd rather see people tested for nicotine
Good luck to you.

But... Nicotine is NOT illegal!

[stupidone]

I have almost decided to quit nursing. I've never been in any trouble in my entire life, took a drag off of a marijuana cig to increase my appetite and feel I will be labeled a druggie for the rest of my career, due to this random drug test I failed. I'm a new nurse but after reading all the possible things the board could do to me, I'm scared to death of even calling them. This whole ordeal has changed my opinion of the board.

I was fired 6 days ago, was told I would be reported to the board, and have heard nothing from anyone. How long should this take?? I've tried to call the Board, but feel panicky just thinking of what will happen and hang up. I'm avoiding the inevidible. HELP! I guess I could go back to transcription, but nursing is my heart. I've cried so much, I'm useless right now. I will continue praying for relief. Financially, I'm sunk. Anyone care out there? I'm at the end of my rope.

[startinovr2]

Depending on where you are ,as here in the north east it can take up to 2 years for the board to get in touch with you.If your license is active I would just get another job while waiting. If this was an isolated thing with no diversion involved and you are working without any further incident that may look good when the board does contact you... Believe me I know how frustrating and scarry this is I have now been out of work for 5 months , no money no insurance and no husband. been a nurse for 27 years cant do anything else.. Sometimes I wonder is it all going to end before I do , b ut there does seem top be light at the end of the tunnel if I can make it there.

Startinovr2

[dlf2007]

I have a friend who was caught DUI; she's a new nurse and this DUI happened outside of work. She self-reported to the BON and reported it during an interview to her current RN employer. She had to get letters of recommendations from friends, past employers and submit them to the board. There was no disciplinary action in regards to nursing as this was a one-time inicident and it happened outside of work. If you can afford it, maybe get an attorney. So, take a deep breath...good luck.