Since the legalization of Cannabis, the use of Marijuana for medicinal purposes is steadily increasing. According to the Office of Medical Marijuana Use, there are 895,469 qualified medical marijuana patients in Florida. However, many healthcare professionals, especially nurses, are still unsure whether they can use medical marijuana.
Can nurses use medical marijuana? Will it affect their job? Could they lose their license? Questions like these continue to confuse many people. It’s a valid concern, especially when federal and state laws conflict on marijuana legality and workplace drug policies vary widely.
So, can a nurse apply for a medical marijuana card in Florida? The short answer is yes, but it is important to understand the laws regarding Cannabis use. This article gives details of the laws to clear the confusion about whether a nurse can have a medical marijuana card in Florida and how it might affect their job.
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Can nurses have a Medical Marijuana Card?
The nurses can get a medical marijuana card in Florida as long as they meet the set criteria. But things get tricky when you factor in workplace policies, licensing boards, and federal law. Here is what nurses need to understand about using medical marijuana:
1. Medical Marijuana Card is Mandatory
Florida’s Compassionate Medical Cannabis Act and Amendment 2 allow every Florida resident to have a medical marijuana card. Here is the criteria that they must meet before applying for a medical card:
- Have a qualifying medical condition.
- Be a Florida resident (permanent or seasonal).
- Provide proof of residency, identity, and your physician’s recommendation.
This means that nurses or doctors are not an exception under Florida’s medical marijuana law. If they qualify, they can apply for a medical marijuana card.
2. Federal Law classifies Medical Marijuana as Illegal
Florida state law and federal law conflict over the medical use of marijuana. Federal law does not recognize any medical benefits and classifies marijuana as a Schedule I substance. So, if you work for a federally funded organization, you must be careful with marijuana use.
3. Workplace Drug Policy
Even if your state allows the use of medical marijuana, there are some organizations with zero-tolerance policies. Drug testing happens at onboarding and randomly throughout their contracts. Any nurse found using medical marijuana or under the influence may lose their job. It is recommended that nurses read the employee handbook or the drug policy.
Can Nurses smoke Medical Marijuana during work hours?
So, can nurses smoke medical marijuana during work hours? The answer is No. Nurses are not allowed to smoke marijuana during working hours.
Doctors and nurses must remain alert, focused, and able to respond quickly to patient needs. Using medical marijuana while on duty can impair a nurse’s ability to perform their job safely and put patient safety at risk.
Nurses may get suspended or lose their license. Therefore, nurses must refrain from using medical marijuana during their working hours.
What Happens if a Nurse Tests Positive for THC?
As a generic rule, nurses can be terminated if they test positive for Marijuana. You will be reported to the Board of Nursing, especially if they consider it a risk to patient safety. The board may open an investigation that could lead to disciplinary action.
If you are found high at work and under the influence of Marijuana, you may be suspended immediately. You may be required to undergo a substance abuse evaluation. Possibly referred to the Intervention Project for Nurses (IPN) or an alternative-to-discipline (ATD) program.
Tips for Nurses Considering Medical Marijuana
As a patient having a qualifying condition, like other patients, nurses are also eligible to apply for a Medical Marijuana Card, as long as they meet the eligibility criteria. However, you must be cautious and must know the rules before using it. Here are some tips for nurses before considering marijuana:
1. Review workplace policy
It is always recommended to check your workplace’s drug policy. Many employers have a zero-tolerance policy, while others show some leniency.
2. Check your state law and board guidelines
Check if your state offers any legal protections for healthcare workers with medical marijuana cards. Also, review your nursing board’s rules on cannabis use.
3. Avoid use during work hours
Never use medical marijuana before or during your shift. It can impair judgment and patient care.
Always stay compliant with State and workplace rules
Doctors and nurses can have a medical marijuana card in Florida, but there are several caveats. It is important to be aware of workplace drug policies, federal law conflicts, licensing board rules, and impairment concerns.
You can lose your license if you test positive after a drug test. So, you must not use cannabis at work or just before going to work. That being said, several states offer legal protections for consumers with a medical marijuana card.
Want to access cannabis legally with a medical marijuana card? My Florida Green can guide you through the process and make it easier to get a medical card in Florida.
