Board agrees to reinstate nurse’s license after convictions, drug use

The Iowa Board of Nursing has agreed to reinstate the license of a registered nurse convicted of theft and drug charges.

State records show that in March 2019, Alexis Reynolds, then of Indianola, surrendered her registered nurse’s license. At the time, she was charged by the Board of Nursing with conviction of a crime related to the practice of nursing; being involved in the unauthorized manufacture or distribution of a controlled substance; and excessive use of drugs, which may impair her ability to practice nursing.

The board’s charges stemmed from Reynolds’ criminal conviction for fifth-degree theft and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Twelve months ago, Reynolds filed a request for reinstatement of her license, indicating she had completed inpatient treatment for substance abuse. Her diagnoses included opioid dependence, other stimulant dependence, and cannabis abuse.

According to board records, Reynolds began methadone treatment in 2019. While in treatment, she tested positive for marijuana use, and admitted using the drug sometime between October 2020 and September 2021. In addition, she relapsed and began using heroin in April 2021.

The board recently concluded that it is in the public interest for Reynolds’ license to be reinstated upon her completion of an approved nurse refresher course and payment of a license-reinstatement fee.

Her license will then be placed on probation for one year.