Remember these points when a nurse colleague in recovery from substance usedisorder returns to work: Stay alert for and take appropriate action in all instances of incompetent, uneth-ical, illegal, or impaired practice or actions by a nurse colleague that jeopardizepatients’ rights and best interests.
Full Answer
Can a nurse return to the workplace after substance abuse?
The earlier the disease and abuse is recognized and treated, the better the outcome for recovery for the nurse and the option to return to the work environment. A unique challenge to the nursing profession and substance abuse is the access to narcotic medications.
Why do nurses get addicted to drugs?
Substance abuse among registered nurses The stressful conditions under which nurses work, due in part to the nursing shortage, are among the risk factors that contribute to nurses' abuse of illicit drugs. Nurses differ from the general population in that they work in an environment where they not only have access to controlled substances, …
What happens when a nurse is accused of substance abuse?
Once a substance abuse disorder is suspected, the nurse is typically placed on leave until an investigation can be conducted. The nursing leadership team and human resource leaders are required to, in most states, report the abuse to the Board of Nursing (BON) and the local police authority.
Where can I find resources for addressing substance abuse in nursing?
The National Council of State Boards of Nursing, who oversees each BON, has many resources for nurses and nurse leaders on addressing the disease of substance abuse disorder.
When did nurses have their licenses revoked?
Prior to the 1980s, before substance abuse was recognized as a disease, nurses were relieved of duty and/or had their nursing license revoked with little recourse or treatment options when found to have a substance abuse disorder. Since that time, many states have enacted non-disciplinary rehabilitation programs to assist nurses with recovery.
Who report abuse to the Board of Nursing?
The nursing leadership team and human resource leaders are required to, in most states, report the abuse to the Board of Nursing (BON) and the local police authority. Each BON has a process for investigation and varying levels of programs to assist nurses through recovery.
Why is it important for nurses to protect patients?
Nurses are entrusted to protect the patients in their care from harm at all times. This protection includes the ability to perform at a high level of critical thinking. Caring for patients while under the duress of substance abuse puts the entire nursing process in harm's way.
What is the nurse practice act?
The Nurse Practice Act for each state will define the process for programs in the state to assist the nurse with returning to work once they are safe to practice. Many states offer a graduated program of returning to work where there is oversight of the nurse with strict restrictions on the work environment.
What happens to the brain of an addict?
Chemical changes occur in the brain of an addict, making it more and more challenging to recover and rehabilitate from the abuse. The earlier the disease and abuse is recognized and treated, the better the outcome for recovery for the nurse and the option to return to the work environment. A unique challenge to the nursing profession ...
What is the challenge of nursing?
A unique challenge to the nursing profession and substance abuse is the access to narcotic medications. Diversion of these drugs for self-use is not only harmful to the nurse, but is also unethical in the failure to protect the patient from harm by diverting the drugs from the patient. Furthermore, the impairment of the nurse may endanger ...
What percentage of employees are in need of substance abuse treatment?
About 10 percent of these employees were considered to have substance abuse or dependence problems. So a lot of employees are technically in need of substance abuse treatment. Unfortunately, statistic show that only about 10 percent of people who could use a drug or alcohol treatment program check themselves into a substance abuse facility.
What is RTWA in employment?
Expectations typically outlined in a Return to Work Agreement (RTWA) may include requirements for complying with Drug-Free Workplace policies (for instance, submitting to regular drug tests).
What does Frank admit to his friend after he finishes?
Frank decides to open up about the true reason for his absence. The friend listens empathetically and after Frank has finished, he quietly admits to Frank that he , too, has struggled with substance abuse. But he has never wanted to let his co-workers know. Frank realizes that he made the right choice – in this case – to be open ...
Did Frank have to extend his absence?
However, Frank decided to openly discuss his plans with his boss, and with the boss’s consent, Frank was able to extend the period which he could be absent without losing his job. Many times, as in Frank’s case, employers value the resources that an employee brings to the company, and they are happy to help an employee who volunteers ...