As the opioid crisis affects millions across the country, hospitals and healthcare networks are implementing stricter tracking methods and enforcement. In Virginia, a state women's prison nurse was arrested for allegedly stealing oxycodone and forging records, and she is now fighting to keep her credentials. If you or a loved one are defending against allegations of drug diversion, call the Lento Law Firm Professional License Defense Team at 888-535-3686 or visit us online now.

Virginia Nurse Accused of Drug Diversion

Michelle Collier, a nurse tasked with pill administration for the Fluvanna Correctional Center for Women, was charged with forgery and possession of a Schedule 2 narcotic. On March 3, internal memos indicated that missing medications were logged after a nurse noticed an inmate would not have their regular supply to last them the weekend. The prison's former nursing director subsequently reported the allegations, which led to Collier's indictment by a Fluvanna County jury in December 2023.

Collier reportedly committed forgery on the facility's “count sheet,” which is used to monitor the distribution of medication, in this case, oxycodone, a highly addictive drug used for pain management. Court records show Collier plans to make a guilty plea on May 9 instead of defending herself in a jury trial.

Additionally, a nurse with the same license number but a slightly different name was reprimanded in 2017 for withdrawing and failing to document administering hydrocodone at a nursing home before she was onboarded with the Virginia prison system. The nurse was required to take a class teaching how to properly document drugs, but her license to distribute medication was otherwise unaffected.

Addiction Can Affect Nurses and other Healthcare Professionals

With a nationwide crackdown on opioids and other painkiller misuse, states have created dedicated drug diversion programs to keep better track of medications and scheduled narcotics so they don't get into the public's hands. However, pharmacists, nurses, and others with the responsibility of managing medication are also at risk for addiction.

Fortunately, states often have services for professionals dealing with substance abuse within their respective drug diversion programs, which can be a way to avoid severe punishment from state licensing boards. Licensees in the program can work their way back from situations involving drug diversion, but it's not a pass. While employers or state officials may encourage managing the issue in-house, your best bet is to get in touch with a professional.

Licensees Can Retain Professional Help for Board Investigations

Allegations of drug diversion can affect licensees quickly, which can lead to immense stress when your career is on the line. The Lento Law Firm Professional License Defense Team understands how licensing boards handle the disciplinary process and will analyze evidence, craft a defense strategy, and challenge the board and other state authorities.

Additionally, our team can advise on communication with regulatory agencies and negotiate settlements before formal proceedings begin to safeguard your professional reputation. Ensure that you have the best opportunity to preserve your license, career, and livelihood by calling the Lento Law Firm now at 888-535-3686 or visiting us online to schedule a consultation.