Other Avenues for RN's?

[Airborne Mom]

Hi. I voluntarily surrendered my nursing license in Alabama in 2007 for substance abuse. I have been clean for almost 2 years now. However, I have not been thru any treatment program, counselling, etc. I just quit when I didn't have Narcotics in my face every day.

My question is this. I don't think I even want to be a nurse anymore, but I don't want to just throw my education away. Are there any other fields out there that I could use my nursing degree without being an actual licensed nurse?

All replies will be greatly appreciated.

[roesseba]

Please, if you get this mail, let me know so I can write to you. I think I have found my double on this earth. YOU.
I couldn't have been happier than the day I gave up my license. What a load off my shoulders. I might not have much money anymore but f*** it, I hate it, and have always hated it. Except I love putting my old patients to bed after getting them all comfortable or being there for a pt. when they ask, "You don't have to leave now, do you?" I really didn't mind staying after my shift to make sure she is comfortable with the next nurse. I truly loved my patients, most of them..
but some money grubbing corporation has to try and squeeze the very last $$$, so they can pick their nose in their 3 story house in private. Now, nurses are best when they have no heart, because then they won't feel bad if it takes 45 min. to get your pain pill, or 20min too late to help you to the bathroom, or having to say I'm sorry 150 times in one shift, or now they wont feel bad because.......... I QUIT NOW!!!

[Dawn674]

What about working in a Rehab or as a substance abuse counselor? I actually considered doing this at one point. Most states have certificate programs for this and I'm sure your nursing experience will be utilized in this field. A lot of people that I know who are recovering choose to work in this field as they are able to relate to their patients and what they have been through..