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what can you do with a nursing degree but no license?
Sent to Health Experts December 14 08:35 PM

I have a BSN and the state will not issue my license without going through an "addiction contract" for 3 years due to DUI on my record. Is there a way to use my degree in the medical field anad use my skills without the license #?

 

Optional Information:
colorado springs, Colorado

Already Tried:
nothing - cannot afford a lawyer and the licensure board does not budge...

Customer (name blocked for privacy)
Status:  Closed   Value: $11
Answer
December 14 8:52 PM (16 minutes and 9 seconds later)
         
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Gloria K -- Nurse (RN)98% Positive Feedback on 157 Health Accepts
RN, pediatrics, geriatrics, acute care
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December 14 9:00 PM (8 minutes and 22 seconds later)
         
I can do any of those things, but I'm not interested in administration whatsoever and cannot afford to do assisting or CNA work. I just wondered if my degree is a complete loss without a license. What about doing independent home care, fully disclosing that I'm not licensed, though I'm otherwise qualified...? Can I call myself a nurse even though I'm not an RN? I'm just desperate to make this decision, and there are incredible hoops to jump through that lead to to question whether I should just choose another path..
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December 14 9:13 PM (12 minutes and 56 seconds later)
         
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Gloria K -- Nurse (RN)98% Positive Feedback on 157 Health Accepts
RN, pediatrics, geriatrics, acute care
Reply
December 15 10:39 AM (13 hours and 25 minutes and 49 seconds later)
         
Right, I can't afford to work for less than RN wages...the board requires a program that includes x3 AA meetings, support group, therapy, and expensive random drug screens EACH WEEK (this is only the minimum.). It's just very expensive and time-consuming and may not be worth it to me in the long run (this is a three-yr contract) I am single, w/ kids to support, and may have to do other things w/ my life rather than jump through hoops for the priviledge of a nursing license...'thought I'd ask since I have spend so much to achieve a BSN only to not be able to use it whatsoever (essentially.)
Customer (name blocked for privacy)
Answer
December 15 10:50 AM (11 minutes and 42 seconds later)
         
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Gloria K -- Nurse (RN)98% Positive Feedback on 157 Health Accepts
RN, pediatrics, geriatrics, acute care
Reply
December 15 11:01 AM (10 minutes and 50 seconds later)
         
yes and yes
Customer (name blocked for privacy)
Info Request
December 15 11:10 AM (8 minutes and 24 seconds later)
         
Have you asked any lawyers about what could be done?

Did you tell the board that you cannot afford the drug screening?

Was the DUI for alcohol or drugs?

Information contained herein is general information. It is not official medical/nursing advice, nor official health teaching/counseling/information. It is not a substitute for professional medical care.
Picture
Gloria K -- Nurse (RN)98% Positive Feedback on 157 Health Accepts
RN, pediatrics, geriatrics, acute care
Reply
December 15 11:17 AM (7 minutes and 16 seconds later)
         
If I could pay a lawyer, I may be able to have some of the duties reduced, but I've been told it's unlikely.

The program through the board doesn't care what your circumstances are - they follow the regimen for everyone without exception.

DUI - alcohol
Customer (name blocked for privacy)
Answer
December 15 11:21 AM (4 minutes and 10 seconds later)
         
ACCEPTEDCheck Mark
I can't believe that they'd make you pay for the testing, if it's something that they are making you do.

Sometimes if you just call a lawyer, they'll give you a free consultation and let you know what can be done.

If there was some way that the board would pay for the drug testing, would you be willing to do the 3 yr contact?

Information contained herein is general information. It is not official medical/nursing advice, nor official health teaching/counseling/information. It is not a substitute for professional medical care.
Picture
Gloria K -- Nurse (RN)98% Positive Feedback on 157 Health Accepts
RN, pediatrics, geriatrics, acute care
Reply
December 15 11:37 AM (15 minutes and 58 seconds later)
         
I want to practice! I'll do anything for the ridiculous program if it's reasonably do-able and affordable. I don't think there's a chance that they'll pay, though.
Customer (name blocked for privacy)
Info Request
December 15 11:40 AM (2 minutes and 55 seconds later)
         
If you've contacted the nursing board by letter or e-mail, telling them that you are willing to do the program, but that you can't afford the drug testing, and they refuse to do so, a lawyer may be your only hope.

Have you sat down with any lawyers for a free consultation?

Maybe you could see how much it would cost for a lawyer to write a letter to the nursing board for you, explaining your situation?

Information contained herein is general information. It is not official medical/nursing advice, nor official health teaching/counseling/information. It is not a substitute for professional medical care.
Picture
Gloria K -- Nurse (RN)98% Positive Feedback on 157 Health Accepts
RN, pediatrics, geriatrics, acute care
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