Chemically Impaired Nurse

• June 25, 2020
• Tony Guo
• no comments

Chemically Impaired Nurse

• It is estimated that 10% to 15% of nurses suffer from the disease of chemical dependency.
• Alcohol is the most widely abused drug, followed closely by narcotics.
• High absenteeism may be present if the person’s source is outside the work area or, the person may rarely miss work if the substance source is at work.
• Increase in “wasting” of drugs, higher incidences of incorrect narcotic counts, and a higher record of signing out drugs for other nurses may be present.
  • Poor concentration, difficulty meeting deadlines, inappropriate responses, and poor memory or recall
  • Problems with relationships
  • Irritability, tendency to isolate, elaborate excuses for behavior
  • Unkempt appearance, impaired motor coordination, slurred speech, flushed face
  • Patient complaints of inadequate pain control, discrepancies in documentation
• State board response
  • May deny, suspend, or revoke a license based on a report of chemical abuse by a nurse
  • Diversionary laws allow impaired nurses to avoid disciplinary action by agreeing to seek treatment.
• During the suspension period
  • Successful completion of an inpatient, outpatient, group, or individual counseling treatment program
  • Evidence of regular attendance at nurse support groups or 12-step program
  • Random negative drug screens
  • Employment or volunteer activities
  • Peer assistance programs serve to assist impaired nurses to:
    • Recognize their impairment
    • Obtain necessary treatment
    • Regain accountability within the profession