What Happens If a Nurse Is Convicted of a DUI?

Nurses are in the business of caring. They wish to act with the best of intentions. However, life happens. Some nurses, like many others, like to unwind, visit friends or family, and enjoy a drink or two. So what happens when a nurse is convicted of a DUI?

The consequences of a nurse getting a DUI depend on the state as well as the state's board of nurses. First, the nurse will be disciplined just as any other person would be based on local and state laws. DUI convictions may include jail time, fines, mandatory AA/NA meetings or other treatment, and community service. Having a DUI may also result in a vehicle impound, revocation of a driver's license, court hearings, and heavy court costs. It can last months or more. Not to mention, a DUI resulting in an injury or death can lead to lifelong guilt, depression, and even a severe prison sentence.

The State Nursing Board

Most of us are aware of the standard DUI outcomes. Nurses (and those in similar professions) have other hurdles to overcome. They may face discipline from their state board of nursing. Each state has different regulations for DUIs. Some nursing boards look at the circumstances around the conviction, prior record of DUIs, as well as a statement of what the nurse is doing to prevent future infractions. State nursing boards need to ensure that the licensee is not a risk to public safety or a danger to themselves. The board might look at whether it is a felony conviction or if the incident led to death or injury.

Discipline from the board results in a few different things. The nurse may be placed on probation for a length of time. The nursing license could be revoked or suspended. Sometimes the nurse may be able to continue working, but must be supervised. Again, this depends on the DUI and the state board. Also, it's important to note that employers may have their own policy regarding nurses convicted of DUI. Employers may discipline, suspend, or even terminate employees.

It may be tempting not to report a DUI to the board of nursing. This is a bad idea, as it may be reported by law enforcement, or they may find out by other means. Discipline may be more extensive if a nurse tries to sweep it under the rug. If arrested for a DUI, a nurse should contact an attorney right away.

Resources for Self-Care

It's pretty safe to say that getting convicted of a DUI is a life-changing event, and can be even more so for a nurse. Nurses should display comportment in and outside the workplace and consider public safety in every facet. Here are a few ways nurses feeling the stress of their jobs can mitigate their alcohol dependence or consumption.

1. Seek Support: Nurses should not hesitate to seek support from colleagues, friends, family, or professional counselors. Sharing feelings and experiences can alleviate stress and provide healthier coping mechanisms.
2. Develop Healthy Coping Mechanisms: Encourage nurses to explore alternative coping mechanisms such as exercise, mindfulness, hobbies, or relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation. Engaging in activities that bring joy and relaxation can help reduce the urge to turn to alcohol.
3. Set Boundaries: Establishing clear boundaries between work and personal life is essential. Encourage nurses to leave work-related stress at the workplace and focus on self-care and relaxation during their time off.
4. Prioritize Self-Care: Nurses must prioritize self-care by getting enough sleep, eating healthily, and engaging in regular physical activity. Taking care of one’s physical and mental health can reduce stress levels and decrease the reliance on alcohol.
5. Limit Triggers: Identify triggers that lead to alcohol consumption and try to avoid or minimize them. This may involve avoiding social situations where alcohol is present or finding alternative ways to manage stress in those situations.
6. Seek Professional Help: If alcohol dependence is severe, seeking professional help is crucial. Nurses can reach out to healthcare providers, therapists, or support groups specializing in alcohol addiction for guidance and treatment options.
7. Develop a Support Network: Building a support network of colleagues, friends, or family members who understand the challenges nurses face can provide a sense of belonging and encouragement during difficult times.
8. Practice Mindfulness: Mindfulness techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises can help nurses stay present in the moment and manage stress more effectively without resorting to alcohol.
9. Find Healthy Outlets: Encourage nurses to find healthy outlets for stress relief, such as engaging in creative activities, spending time in nature, or volunteering. These activities can provide a sense of fulfillment and purpose without the negative consequences of alcohol consumption.
10. Celebrate Successes: Recognize and celebrate achievements, both big and small. Celebrating success can boost morale and provide motivation to continue making positive changes in lifestyle and coping mechanisms.

RELATED: The Ultimate Self-Care Guide For Nurses

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Amanda Bucceri Androus, RN, BSN

Amanda Bucceri Androus is a Registered Nurse from Sacramento, California. She graduated from California State University, Sacramento in 2000 with a bachelor's degree in nursing. She began her career working night shifts on a pediatric/ med-surg unit for six years, later transferring to a telemetry unit where she worked for four more years. She currently works as a charge nurse in a busy outpatient primary care department. In her spare time she likes to read, travel, write, and spend time with her husband and two children.