Treatment options vary widely and are dependent on each nurse’s circumstances.
Registered nursing is an incredibly difficult job, pushing professionals to their limits on a daily basis. Those who choose this path in Southern California often do so out of an intense sense of empathy and care for patients, which can take an enormous emotional toll. It’s sadly common for nurses to develop substance abuse issues or mental health concerns, both of which may affect their ability to practice safely. If your license is in danger because of either of these issues, it’s time to meet with professional license defense and administrative law attorneys at the Long Beach license defense law firm of Robin D. Perry & Associates. Call us at 562-216-2944 to set up a consultation. We’ll help you learn more about the state’s intervention program and other options that may help you save your license.
While substance abuse and mental health problems have long plagued healthcare workers at all levels and in all specialties, there are some times and circumstances that truly test healthcare workers. One research study found that registered nurses’ emotional wellbeing was significantly negatively impacted during the COVID-19 pandemic, resulting in greater rates of substance abuse. The overarching point of the study was to highlight the need for support for registered nurses and resources that prioritize their emotional welfare.
An Overview of the Intervention Program
The Intervention Program is run by the California Board of Registered Nursing. It strives to identify nurses struggling with substance abuse or mental illness before it becomes a serious problem in their practice. The program intervenes early and strives to provide both help and hope for participants. After nurses receive treatment, they are monitored before they are allowed to return to practice. One of their stated goals is to bridge the gap between nurses with untreated issues and those rehabilitated through recovery programs.
Treatment and Support Options
There are numerous options for nurses struggling with mental illness or substance abuse, two common reasons people lose their professional licenses. The Intervention Program allows a confidential consultation for those enrolling in the program, which permits nurses to disclose their problems and concerns freely without fear of those problems being used against them by the Board. Once a nurse has enrolled in the program, they work with experts to develop a specialized rehabilitation plan that addresses their unique needs and challenges.
As the nurse works through their rehabilitation plan, they are monitored by program specialists who can identify setbacks and delays, and then develop solutions to help participants overcome those hurdles. Recovery can be a challenging road, but nurses can count on consistent support, guidance, and encouragement while in the Intervention Program. If facing challenges with your nursing license in Long Beach, consulting a Long Beach license defense lawyer can provide essential guidance and legal representation to protect your professional rights and career.
Treatment options vary widely and are dependent on each nurse’s circumstances. There are inpatient options, outpatient options, aftercare, ongoing therapy options, and nurse support groups. Some also utilize 12-step groups as part of their recovery journey.
It’s important to note that nurses do not have to rely only on the Intervention Program if they are already participating in another recovery program. The BRN often recommends that nurses utilize both resources while working toward recovery.
The Road Back to Nursing Practice
As part of the Intervention Program, the BRN has a Return-to-Work Plan for applicants. When the Intervention Program decides that a nurse is fit for duty, they may return to work with specific limitations. These limitations depend largely on the reason for the Intervention Program and the nurse’s circumstances. For example, a nurse who struggles with addiction to controlled narcotics may not be granted access to controlled substances as part of their job for a set period of time. The goal of the Intervention Program is to allow all participating nurses to eventually return to full and uninhibited nursing practice.
The Intervention Program is considered an alternative to discipline, so it may be an excellent option for nurses who qualify. In addition to helping you save your license, it may also support you in management of your substance abuse or mental health concerns. If you need assistance navigating this program, a license defense lawyer in Long Beach can provide expert legal advice and representation.
Facing a License Suspension? Contact the License Defense Law Firm of Robin D. Perry & Associates Now
The earlier you contact a license defense attorney after finding out that you are under investigation, the more time they have to research your case. Set up a time to meet with our team now. Call us at 562-216-2944 or send us a message online to get started.
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