I am a Registered Nurse and an Alcoholic

My sobriety date is May 10, 2016.  I can say with all honesty- I have not had a drop of alcohol since this date.  However, I will always consider myself an alcoholic.  I know if I have one drink, my disease will take over and I will take more.

So, how is the public protected as I practice as a nurse during this early recovery period?  I am under a monitoring contract through my state's board of nursing.  I actually self- reported that I was seeking treatment and applied to the board's alternative to discipline program.  Because I qualified for the alternative to discipline program, I do not have disciplinary action against my nursing license.  However, I do have to meet specific guidelines (for a period of 5 years).  Including:

• Completed a comprehensive evaluation and the recommendations for rehabilitation.
• Attend weekly aftercare program (approximately 1 hour weekly)
• Attend a minimum of (3) support meetings- must be based on 12 Step recovery (i.e. AA, NA, CA ect)
• Limit hours working as RN to 84 in a 2 week period
• Individual counseling
• Random drug testing including daily check-in
• Submission of verification of all prescriptions to the board
• Quarterly reports from employer, counselor and continuing care facilitator
• Monthly self report
• Practice stipulations

Is it worth it?  Absolutely!  The requirements above are simply what I need to do to stay sober.  Is it overwhelming at times?  Sure, but my chances of long-term sobriety are greatly enhanced through the program.