The Texas Peer Assistance Program (“TPAPN”) for Texas Nurses

As a nurse, maintaining your license is crucial to your career and livelihood. For Texas nurses who face disciplinary issues or need to demonstrate their ability to practice safely, the Texas Peer Assistance Program for Nurses (TPAPN) offers a structured path toward compliance and restoration of professional standing. At Lype, Dest & Smith, we understand how challenging it can be to navigate these requirements, and we are here to provide clarity and assistance if you need legal support.

What Is TPAPN?

The Texas Peer Assistance Program for Nurses (TPAPN) is a program developed by the Texas Board of Nursing (BON) and the Texas Nurses Association (TNA) to evaluate and monitor nurses who may have had prior issues with substance use, physical or mental impairments, or other conditions that could affect their ability to practice nursing safely.

The program provides nurses with an opportunity to demonstrate fitness to practice under strict supervision and guidelines. Nurses participating in TPAPN must comply with individualized stipulations, which can include random drug testing, supervised practice, counseling, or treatment for identified issues. Importantly, completing TPAPN successfully allows a nurse to maintain or regain their professional license without long-term disciplinary action being taken.

The BON and TNA created TPAPN to ensure public safety while offering nurses a chance for rehabilitation and professional redemption. Participation is voluntary in some cases, but noncompliance can lead to disciplinary action, including suspension or revocation of a license. The official BON guideline document contains more information about the BON’s expectations and compliance requirements.

How Can a Nurse Benefit From TPAPN?

TPAPN offers several benefits to nurses, primarily by providing a pathway to keep their license in good standing or to recover it if disciplinary actions have been initiated. Participating in TPAPN not only demonstrates compliance with the Texas Board of Nursing requirements but also showcases a commitment to professional accountability and safe practice.

Here are key ways TPAPN benefits Texas nurses:

1. Retention of Licensing Privileges: By successfully completing the program, nurses can often avoid permanent marks on their professional records.
2. Demonstration of Fitness to Practice: TPAPN allows nurses to prove their sobriety and readiness to continue serving in their roles.
3. Access to Support Services: Many TPAPN participants are provided with access to counseling, medical care, or substance abuse treatment services, offering much-needed help during a challenging time.
4. Rehabilitation Opportunities: The program emphasizes rehabilitation over punishment, helping nurses address any underlying issues affecting their practice.

According to the Texas Board of Nursing, adhering to TPAPN’s terms can be critical for nurses who wish to avoid more severe sanctions. You can find additional information on the program at The Free Library and on TPAPN’s website.

What Are the Texas Nurse Drug Testing Rules?

Texas nurses are subject to rigorous drug testing rules to ensure their fitness to practice. These regulations are enforced by the Texas Board of Nursing. Noncompliance with these testing or other requirements can result in disciplinary action, including license suspension or revocation.

Random Drug Testing

The BON requires nurses to participate in random urine drug testing through a system like RecoveryTrek. Nurses must check in with RecoveryTrek daily to determine if they are selected for testing. Initially, nurses may be required to test at least once per week for the first three months of participation. Over time, the frequency of testing may be reduced based on compliance.

Alcohol Screening

A positive alcohol screen during the TPAPN can lead to immediate suspension of a nurse’s license. This reflects the BON’s zero-tolerance policy for impairment while practicing nursing.

Controlled Substances

If a nurse tests positive for a controlled substance without a legitimate prescription, the BON may take immediate action to suspend the license. Nurses are required to notify TPAPN of any controlled substance prescriptions and must provide written verification from their prescribing healthcare provider.

Reporting Requirements

Nurses also have an obligation to report colleagues they suspect are impaired due to substance abuse or mental incapacity. Failing to report such suspicions could result in disciplinary action.

Probationary Stipulations

In addition to drug and alcohol screenings, nurses may face probationary requirements, such as supervised practice, mandatory counseling, or participation in substance abuse treatment programs. Nursing facilities themselves are not obligated to perform drug testing but may implement their own policies to safeguard patient care. 

For personal accounts and additional insights on the TPAPN experience, you can visit the discussion forums at AllNurses.

Take the Next Step with Lype, Dest & Smith

The Texas Peer Assistance Program (TPAPN) and the Texas Board of Nursing’s strict requirements can be complex and stressful, especially when your career, reputation, and livelihood are on the line. If you’re a nurse struggling with compliance issues, random drug testing obligations, or licensing challenges, Lype, Dest & Smith is here to help. Our experienced team is dedicated to protecting your rights and guiding you through this critical process. Contact us today to take control of your future and safeguard your professional standing.

Dan Lype

Not afraid to go to court when necessary, Dan has successfully litigated cases all the way to the Supreme Court of Texas. Dan also prides himself on being readily available to clients throughout their cases. He strongly believes effective representation should be a collaborative effort between a client and their attorney.

Years of experience: 15 years
Bar number: 24065658
Location: Austin, TX

Dan Lype

Not afraid to go to court when necessary, Dan has successfully litigated cases all the way to the Supreme Court of Texas. Dan also prides himself on being readily available to clients throughout their cases. He strongly believes effective representation should be a collaborative effort between a client and their attorney.

Years of experience: 15 years
Justia Profile: Dan Lype
Bar number: 24065658
Location: Austin, TX