Protecting Your License: Substance Abuse, OWI, and Indiana Nursing Careers
Substance abuse and Operating While Intoxicated (OWI) charges can have devastating consequences for Indiana nurses and other licensed professionals. Whether it’s an OWI conviction, a failed drug test, or an impairment report, the Indiana State Board of Nursing (ISBN) and other licensing boards take these matters seriously.
A single mistake—even one made outside of work—can lead to:
✔ License suspension or revocation
✔ Mandatory participation in monitoring programs
✔ Employment termination
✔ Permanent damage to your reputation
Understanding your rights, responsibilities, and available resources is critical if you are facing an OWI or substance-related issue.
📞 Worried about your nursing license? Contact Vining Legal LLC at (317) 759-3225 or schedule a consultation today.
The Impact of Substance Abuse and OWI on Nursing and Professional Licenses
A. Reporting Requirements for Nurses and Other Licensed Professionals
Indiana law requires nurses and other licensed professionals to report substance abuse issues and certain convictions, including OWI.
🔹 Who is required to report?
✔ Self-Reporting: Nurses must report OWI convictions and substance abuse treatment in some cases.
✔ Employers: Hospitals and healthcare facilities are required to report impaired nurses or those suspected of drug diversion.
✔ Colleagues: If another nurse suspects impairment, they may be required to report it.
🔹 Failing to report an OWI or substance-related issue can result in additional penalties from the licensing board.
B. Disciplinary Actions by the Indiana State Board of Nursing
The Indiana State Board of Nursing (ISBN) has the authority to impose disciplinary actions for:
✔ OWI convictions
✔ Failed drug tests
✔ Impairment at work
✔ Drug diversion (stealing medication from a workplace)
🔹 Possible disciplinary actions include:
✔ License suspension or revocation
✔ Placement on probation with monitoring requirements
✔ Participation in the Indiana State Nurses Assistance Program (ISNAP)
✔ Mandatory drug testing and rehabilitation
📌 TIP: The Board considers each case individually, but OWI convictions and substance abuse allegations are taken very seriously, especially if patient safety was at risk.
C. Impairment and Patient Safety Concerns
The Nursing Board’s top priority is patient safety. Any sign of impairment while working can lead to immediate suspension.
🔹 Examples of impaired behavior that could trigger an investigation:
✔ Slurred speech, confusion, or unsteady movements
✔ Medication errors or unsafe patient care
✔ Missing controlled substances from medication records
📌 TIP: If you have struggled with substance abuse, seeking treatment proactively may help protect your license.
The Indiana State Nurses Assistance Program (ISNAP) and Other Resources
A. What Is ISNAP?
The Indiana State Nurses Assistance Program (ISNAP) helps nurses with substance use disorders by offering monitoring, treatment referrals, and rehabilitation support.
✔ Participation in ISNAP is confidential—you can self-refer before facing discipline.
✔ Nurses may be required to enroll in ISNAP as part of a disciplinary order.
✔ ISNAP monitors treatment progress and drug testing for nurses in recovery.
📌 TIP: Entering ISNAP voluntarily before an investigation begins can help demonstrate accountability and may lead to a more favorable outcome.
B. Alternative-to-Discipline Programs
Some professionals may qualify for alternative programs that allow them to continue working while in treatment instead of facing harsh discipline. These programs typically require:
✔ Random drug testing
✔ Regular therapy and addiction treatment
✔ Ongoing reports to the licensing board
📌 TIP: Alternative programs offer a second chance but require strict compliance.
C. Treatment and Rehabilitation Resources in Indiana
If you are struggling with substance abuse, seeking treatment before the Board takes action may help preserve your license.
✔ Inpatient & outpatient rehab facilities
✔ 12-step programs like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA)
✔ Mental health counseling and addiction specialists
📌 TIP: Showing a commitment to recovery can help you avoid harsher penalties from the Board.
D. The Importance of Legal Representation
If you are facing an OWI conviction or substance abuse allegations, legal representation is essential.
A professional license defense attorney can:
✔ Advocate for you during Board hearings
✔ Negotiate alternative discipline programs
✔ Challenge unfair allegations or evidence
✔ Help preserve your license and career
📞 Need help defending your nursing license? Contact Vining Legal LLC at (317) 759-3225 or schedule a consultation.
Protecting Your License: Proactive Steps and Defense Strategies
A. Early Intervention Is Key
✔ Seeking help voluntarily through ISNAP or another treatment program can prevent license suspension.
✔ Address mental health concerns that may contribute to substance use.
B. Compliance with Court and Board Requirements
✔ Complete all court-ordered OWI requirements (if applicable).
✔ Follow ISNAP’s monitoring rules to remain in good standing.
✔ Keep all records of compliance to show proof of rehabilitation.
C. Addressing an OWI Conviction
✔ Expungement may be an option after completing sentencing requirements.
✔ Rehabilitation efforts (such as AA/NA attendance) can show the Board that you are committed to change.
✔ Legal representation can help minimize penalties and protect your career.
📌 TIP: The sooner you take action, the better your chances of keeping your license.
Conclusion: Protect Your Nursing License and Your Future
✔ OWI convictions and substance abuse allegations can lead to license suspension or revocation.
✔ Indiana offers programs like ISNAP to help nurses recover while keeping their licenses.
✔ Seeking treatment early and working with a license defense attorney can improve your outcome.
📞 Concerned about your nursing license? Contact Vining Legal LLC at (317) 759-3225 or schedule a consultation today.
