Question

Discuss the issue of substance-related disorder within the profession of nursing.

Answer 1

Ans) Issue of substance related disorder within the profession of Nursing:

Risk factors for substance related disorder:

- High stress work environment
- Irregular work hours/rotating shifts
- Access to medications/narcotics
- Lack of healthy coping skills
- Co-dependent behaviors (needing to care for/rescue all pts at all costs and neglecting one's own needs for rest, nutrition and stress mgmt)

Impaired nurses begin their use and abuse of substances in-Nursing school

Indicators of impairment:

- Obvious signs of intoxication (odor, dilated pupils, slurred speech, unsteady gait)
- Change in appearance (disheveled, bloodshot eyes)
- Change in behavior (cognitive changes, mood swings, frequent absenteeism, taking excessive breaks, more disorganized in work, frequent mistakes)
- Medication admin issues (frequently volunteering to give meds, frequent discrepancies in narcotics count, pt reports of no pain relief).

Accromynm:

E - excused or ignored behaviors
N - never told the supervisor about concerning behaviors
A - Accepted responsibility for unfinished work and attempted to solve his/her problems
B - Believed that RNs do not use drugs or alcohol to the point of impairment
L - Liked to use drugs or alcohol myself to relax or enjoy w friends
E - Exonerated a peer's irresponsible actions by covering for attendance or tardiness, not witnessing wastes, corrected narcotic count
D - Defended a colleague when it was suggested there may be a problem

Benefits for alternative to discipline programs:

- Impaired nurses are removed from work environment quickly, unlike traditional disciplinary procedures that can extend for months to years.

Prevention:

- Learn how to manage stress without use of drugs/substances
- Find a healthy balance between work and leisure time
- Develop self nurturance/self care skills.