The effects of co-dependence on physicians and nurses

To evaluate the effect on physicians and nurses of being closely involved with one or more chemical dependent persons, a sample of 67 physicians and 133 nurses with chemical dependent significant others was surveyed. The majority reported that the quality of their work was adversely affected by this association. Reduced ability to concentrate, absenteeism, errors, poor judgment, and patient neglect were reported. Most reported their professional education had not prepared them to recognize and assist people with chemical dependence and half thought their professional education negatively influenced their ability to help. About half had attempted to treat the chemical dependent person(s) themselves, sometimes giving medication and occasionally diverting drugs for this purpose. Most said their self-esteem and self-confidence were damaged by these relationships. Over one-third reported being diagnosed as depressed and 12% had attempted suicide. There were few differences between physicians and nurses on the effects of being in a co-dependent relationship(s), although nurses and women were more likely to have chemically dependent parents. Implications for professional education are identified.