Arkansas Nurse Self-Reports Hydrocodone Diversion

Arkansas LPN Kameron Leigh Charles voluntarily surrendered her license on July 1, 2021 after self-reporting that she diverted and consumed hydrocodone from her employer, Cabot Health and Rehab in Cabot, Arkansas. Nurse Charles was terminated mid-October 2020.

In November, 2022, Kameron Leigh Charles was placed on probation for a duration of two years, with a set of stringent conditions including but not limited to:

• Treatment Plan: The respondent must adhere to a treatment plan, including cognitive behavioral therapy, and provide progress reports to the Board.
• Substance Abstinence: Complete abstinence from controlled substances, alcohol, and other specified products is required.
• Drug Screening: The respondent must undergo observed drug screening as per Board guidelines.
• Employer Notification: All present and future employers must be informed of the probation conditions, and a copy of the consent agreement and order must be presented to them.
• Supervision: The respondent must work under supervision in all settings, with another nurse of equal licensure readily available for assistance.
• Limitations on Employment: Certain nursing settings, including Home Health, Home Hospice, and Critical Care, are off-limits during probation.
• Prescription Monitoring: Personal prescriptions will be monitored through the Prescription Drug Monitoring Program.
• Travel Restrictions: The nurse’s license is valid only in Arkansas during the probationary period.