Lynd
New Member
Posts:8
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| 06/08/2009 11:12 AM |
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| Does anyone know of any good resources for nurses who are recovering addicts? This is something I think is very important for those in the healthcare profession, just having the proper support, and I haven't found much out there. From having a sibling who is a recovering addict and nurse, it's an issue that hits home with me, and I think there should be more awareness and support. |
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BethRNNJ
New Member
Posts:1
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| 06/09/2009 1:29 PM |
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There are several resources--- Depending on the needs of the Nurse--If the Nurse is addicted to Drugs or using alcohol healvily where there will be a physical detox- then inpatient detox is indicated (usually 3-5 days) ( available through your Employee assistance Program or Insurance Co OR call local Crisis Unit ) --- If detox is not indicated-- there is AA/NA (many Nurses attend these 12 step groups) AA has been around since the 1930's and has a huge support network and is FREE!!
Also individual counseling with a a therapsist (one who knows addictions) In Nj we have the RAMP program that monitors Nurses who's license's are impacted--
There are resources hope this helps any more questions just ask!! --Beth RN-BC (Psych Crisis Nurse-worked in addictions x 15 yrs- |
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shannonbri
New Member
Posts:1
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| 12/29/2009 8:22 PM |
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i was hoping i would find a thread related to this topic....
i was recently put on administrative leave at work, and have been trying to place myself into rehab. however, i recently discovered i am pregnant, so there are very few rehab programs that will take me as a patient. i was really hoping i could find a place where other nurses have or are currently going thru something similar to me....im wondering what kind of disciplinary actions the board takes, considering this is the first and only offense i have every incurred in my entire life. i was valedictorian of my class, and i have worked extremely hard to earn my degree. but now, due to one huge mistake in my life, i fear i might lose everything. i was told by a board investigator today that i can apply for "alternative programs".....what does that mean? and that my license will be suspended for 6-8months....my biggest question is: what do i do for the 6 months that my license is suspended? my job isn't going to wait that long for me...and now that im pregnant, this brings more stress into my life. and i am a single female struggling to make ends meat and now i have absolutely no source of income. i cannot get unemployment, at least i dont think i can due to the fact that i was put on administrative leave and will end up being fired. i guess im just looking for someone that knows the process, or has some familiarity on the subject. any thoughts? |
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Lynd
New Member
Posts:8
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| 01/14/2010 6:50 PM |
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Hi Shannonbri -
I would check out the article Nurses and Substance Abuse - http://www.nursetogether.com/tabid/100/itemid/1515/Nurses-and-Substance-Abuse.aspx
In it, the author mentions a site called Recoveringnurses.org.
I'm sorry I can't answer more of your questions, but you might also want to reach out to Taralynn Mackay who is a regular contributor on NurseTogether. She is a nurse attorney and has written an article on the site discussing nurses and addiction. Here is her bio page that includes her web sites where she lists her email address. http://www.nursetogether.com/tabid/190/itemid/769/Taralynn-Mackay.aspx
I hope this helps!
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SCThomas
New Member
Posts:4
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| 01/19/2010 12:41 PM |
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| What are you all's opinions on why nurses are so susceptible to addiction? |
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universalRN
Active Member
Posts:95
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| 01/19/2010 1:31 PM |
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I believe its due to our lifestyle. All the different shifts and sleeping habits make it difficult for a straight schedule. Its also hard emotionally when you see a lot of the hardship from families to cope.
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Kathleen
New Member
Posts:2
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| 03/19/2010 9:10 PM |
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| as mentioned earlier, I found the 12 step programs to work for me. you would be suprised at how many of us are in recovery. Try a women's meeting. powerful stuff going on there. |
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Kathleen
New Member
Posts:2
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| 03/19/2010 9:29 PM |
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| it depends on what state you live in. NJ is not so nice about it. I went up to NY after I surrendered my license ( I couldn't stay sober,family intervention)went to rehab, for my license, they put me in the PAP program (professional assistance program) where I got a conditional license, did random urines attended 12 step meetings and a nursing support group.It's a 2 year deal. had to go to counseling. If you let people know where you are at (jobless, pregnant and scared) and get honest you will never go without. I have since moved from NY but have a great friend, Kathy from my RN support group. nothing changes if nothing changes. |
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Patricia
New Member
Posts:1
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| 03/23/2010 11:32 AM |
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I believe as much as the rest it also has something to do with so much of the so called "back stabbing" attitudes of some nurses, the mistakes others are making and trying to pin on anyone but themselves...the dishonesty and the lack of real caring some of these nurses are showing. I know so many nurses who are into the career only for the money and the job security. I nearly quit when I was still studying to be a nurse due to the dishonesty that was going on even among the students. It's like living a soap opera at times. I've quit working as a nurse and put my career on hold 3 times due to that sort of work environment. "it's not my....mistake, problem, job....etc". If all these people would just lose those phrases and pull together and do what they are supposed to do....things would not be quite as stressful. I know....maybe I sound petty but I've had times where I'd rather be working with a pile of rocks than what I was given to work with. Have a nice day 
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