A nurse has been confronted about stealing and taking drugs from the narcotics cart in the med room. The nurse has been reported to the board of nursing in their state. What is the likely initial outcome?

A. While the nurse may face disciplinary action at work, being fired immediately is not always the first step. Many state boards of nursing follow a structured process that often includes investigation and the opportunity for rehabilitation before termination. B. The likely initial outcome when a nurse is reported for diverting controlled substances is referral to a nurse assistance program or a substance use monitoring/treatment program. State boards of nursing often prioritize rehabilitation and treatment, particularly if it is a first-time offense and the nurse acknowledges the problem. This approach aims to protect the public while supporting the nurse’s recovery. C. Losing a nursing license immediately is uncommon. The board typically conducts an investigation, may place the license on probation, or require treatment before revocation. Immediate license loss usually occurs only in severe or repeated offenses. D. A transfer to another unit is not an appropriate or standard response to drug diversion. The issue involves professional misconduct, not merely unit placement, and requires formal reporting and intervention.