Getting fired in these situations has nothing to do with compassion or loyalty. Hospitals often terminate us (impaired nurses) for a couple of reasons. If diverting drugs was involved it's criminal act/ a felony actually and grounds for termination in any workplace. 2nd even if the management is inclined to keep you on the risk management depart will almost always reccomend termination to protect the hospital from liabilty should the actions of an impaired cause injury or death to a patient.
On the disbility issue you need to go to a psychiatrist and get a diagnosis of Depression with substance abuse as the secondary diagnosis. Then you will quailfy for state disibility. Dont count on being alowed to return to work for 6mos to a year and when you do return it will initially be a non-patient care position.
I know that this seems like the end of the world right now, I thought so too when I was referred to the board. In hindsight 2 1/2 years later it's the best thing that ever happened to me. The big thing about getting through this program is follow the rules to the letter. Write to me any time for input. I will always answer. If you loved nursing you'll love it again.
Peace and Namaste
hppy