Yet, many place that treasure in serious jeopardy when they fall weak to the stresses of the job and turn to substance abuse to cope. Random drug tests have become the norm and a drug test is automatic in the new hire process.
So, what are the rules and if they are so serious why do so many risk it? Most test for controlled substances that you have not already declared and for which shown a prescription. Most facilities respond to a positive drug screen with automatic termination. There are a few who give suspension with rehab and possibility for a return to work only if rehab is completed and random test are negative.
Now, I have just read where some states are allowing nurse grads with actual drug convictions such as DUI and cocaine use to sit for nursing board licensing exam! How did the lines of qualifications and back ground history checks get so blurred and laxed? A childcare worker convicted of child porn or child sexual abuse wound not be allowed to return to a job working with children. So, how is the health and safety of the ill and injured any different?
Most facilities have a no tolerance policy and frequent ongoing education for employees to not only know the implications for themselves but to know how to recognize if a coworker may have an problem and what to do if one suspects such.
As a patient you have the right to question what medication you are getting, why, whatit does and even your nurse's actions if they seem inappropriate.
To read more of grads with a past go to the link below.
