Impaired Nurse Essay

The American Nurses Association (ANA) defines an impaired nurse as one who “has cognitive, interpersonal or psychomotor skills affected by psychiatric illness and/or drug or alcohol abuse or addiction.” They go on to state that an impaired nurse “is unable to meet the requirements of the code of ethics and standards of practice of the profession.” Impaired nurses may be under the influence of alcohol, amphetamines, opioids, inhalants, sedatives, hypnotics, or tranquilizers. Some of these drugs may be obtained illegally, whether on the street or by diverting them from patients to whom they are prescribed, or through legal prescriptions used improperly before or during work. (tlcprojects.org) Warning signs of impairment include multiple errors in documentation or judgement, elaborate excuses, declining work ethic, and increased tardiness or sick days. Warning signs specific to alcohol impairment/abuse include alcohol breath, hand tremors, unusual drowsiness at work, mood swings, irritability, avoidance of coworkers, slurred speech, and excessive use of breath
With many facilities being understaffed, RN’s can pick up a lot of overtime. Combine a hectic work schedule with all of the other demands in a nurse’s life and it is easy to understand how he or she could become overstressed. Some may choose to turn to drugs or alcohol to help them cope with their stress. It may help calm them or, in the case of amphetamines, might give them the energy they need to get through their next shift. Studies have also shown a correlation between the occupational environment and the use of drugs and alcohol. The more dissatisfied a nurse is with her work environment, the higher chance he or she may turn to drugs or alcohol. (Occupational Environment article) Whatever the cause of the nurse’s drug or alcohol use, it is crucial that there be a way that an impaired nurse can get treatment to overcome drug or alcohol addiction without fear of