Can I use supplements/herbal supplements as a nurse?

I recently got my first job as a RN and was reading over some of the paperwork. There was some very vague general wording on there about habitual or addictive use of narcotics, stimulants, blah blah blah.

Im not really sure what to make of this. I mean im pretty sure 90% of people consume caffeine daily, and thats clearly a stimulant.

I use a wide variety of fitness/workout supplements, which I know contain different substances. Caffeine, Yohimbe, ephedra and a variety of other herbs/drugs are in frequently found in common exercise/weight loss supplements.

While they are all legal and over the counter, im not sure if im allowed to be using any of these while being a nurse. I mean obviously they wont do anything about caffeine, but im not sure if others are considered gray areas.

Anyone have any experience/knowledge/opinions on the matter?
I don't think this is something we can answer I would check with your PCP

Quote from mhy12784I recently got my first job as a RN and was reading over some of the paperwork. There was some very vague general wording on there about habitual or addictive use of narcotics, stimulants, blah blah blah.Anyone have any experience/knowledge/opinions on the matter?

Quote from Esme12I don't thin this is something we can answer I would check with your PCP

Ephedra is the only one if stay away from because it is illegal in the US and may test positive for amphetamines.

Quote from liberated847Ephedra is the only one if stay away from because it is illegal in the US and may test positive for amphetamines.

You're playing with your health, supplements are poorly regulated and many contain illegal ingredients. Workout the natural way without taking the easy way with 'shortcuts' and you'll be fine. My hospital just sent a few people to counseling after testing positive, and guess what they claimed, yes 'supplements' do yourself a favor and quit.

Quote from liberated847You're playing with your health, supplements are poorly regulated and many contain illegal ingredients. Workout the natural way without taking the easy way with 'shortcuts' and you'll be fine. My hospital just sent a few people to counseling after testing positive, and guess what they claimed, yes 'supplements' do yourself a favor and quit.

Quote from mhy12784 Thats why im asking. I mean caffeine is a supplement, and a stimulant, and the overwhelmingly majority of people use it without problem. If there are certain things that nurses are expected to avoid or not take, then I fully plan on doing so. Theres nothing that I need, im just trying to do my homework and go about things in a smart responsible manner.

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