Drug use while at work is a serious case, which is why a right nurse attorney is needed if you get accused of this kind of scenario. However, some who thought they were guilty of the charges failed to hire a nurse attorney just because they thought it’s the doom for their RN or LVN license already. But that is not entirely the case as there is still hope.
Unfortunately, a RN from Houston failed to do this, which resulted in a disciplinary action from the Texas Board of Nursing. Take note that the Board handles all of the cases that may affect the RN or LVN license from receiving the suspension, disciplinary action, or revocation. However, with a right nurse attorney for the case, rest assured that the case can go according to the nurse’s favor, especially if the nurse has a good defense against the case.
On or about April 8, 2018, the RN engaged in the intemperate use of Marijuana, in that she admitted to inadvertently smoking Marijuana. The use of Marijuana by a Registered Nurse and a Licensed Vocational Nurse, while subject to call or duty, could impair the nurse’s ability to recognize subtle signs, symptoms, or changes in a patient’s condition, and could impair the nurse’s ability to make rational, accurate, and appropriate assessments, judgments, and decisions regarding patient care, thereby placing a patient in potential danger.
On or about April 8, 2018, the RN attempted to interfere with a reasonable-suspicion drug screen, in that she twice asked a nurses’ aid to provide her with some clean urine because she believed she was going to test positive for marijuana. Her conduct was likely to deceive the facility, who relied on the results of the reasonable-suspicion drug screen to verify her ability to practice safely, and could have affected their decision to continue her employment
In response to the allegations filed against her, the RN states she likes to smoke cigars when she goes fishing. She states she realized there was marijuana in the cigar, which she states was placed there without her knowledge. The RN further states she panicked when she was asked to perform a drug screen, and admits she asked a CNA to provide urine for the screen.
This is the reason why the Texas Board of Nursing discipline and suspended her license.
Any RN or LVN should never use any substance in and out of work as it may affect their performance, which may lead to further issues to the patients they are taking care of. Additionally, if you ever undergo cases such as this, it’s best to seek the assistance of a good nurse attorney as it could make the case better in your favor. Be sure to find a nurse attorney who’s experienced and knowledgeable in several nurse cases to ensure the best assistance possible.
The Texas Board of Nursing has full jurisdiction over all cases that may affect the RN license. The strictness of the Board also ensures that nurses will only commit to the duties they are assigned to in order to guarantee accurate and excellent performance in all hospitals throughout the state of Texas.
If you also received a letter from the Texas Board of Nursing regarding a case or complaint filed on you, you should hire a nurse attorney immediately before it’s too late. Texas nurse attorney Yong J. An is one of those dedicated nurse lawyers who helped various nurses in their cases since 2006. You may contact him 24/7 at (832) 428-5679 for more information or if you want to schedule a private consultation.