Intervention with chemically dependent nurses: a paradigm for professional retention.

Area of Science:

• Healthcare professional impairment
• Nursing practice
• Substance use disorders

Background:

• Intervention is crucial for identifying and referring healthcare professionals with chemical dependence.
• Effective nurse intervention requires documented evidence of impaired practice.
• A supportive team approach is essential for successful intervention.

Observation:

• A two-year pilot program, the Nurse Recovery Program, was implemented by the Tampa Area Hospital Council.
• This community-wide program focused on intervention techniques for nurses with chemical dependence.
• The program involved a team of nurses presenting evidence to the affected nurse.

Findings:

• The Nurse Recovery Program utilized specific intervention techniques.
• Sixty percent of nurses who underwent treatment for chemical dependence successfully returned to practice.
• The program demonstrated a high success rate in facilitating return to practice.

Implications:

• This intervention model can improve outcomes for chemically dependent nurses.
• Successful return to practice supports workforce stability in nursing.
• Evidence-based intervention strategies are vital for addressing substance use in healthcare.