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Identification and assistance for chemically dependent nurses working in long-term care
1Kansas Department of Health and Environment, Topeka, USA.
Geriatric Nursing (New York, N.Y.)
|May 1, 1997
Summary
This study addresses impaired nurses in long-term care, detailing causes, signs, and interventions for chemical dependency. Nurse managers play a key role in supporting treatment and return to practice.
Area of Science:
- Nursing Practice
- Healthcare Management
- Substance Abuse Treatment
Background:
- Chemical dependency among nurses poses risks to patient safety and facility operations.
- Long-term care settings require specific strategies to address nurse impairment.
- Nurse managers hold ethical and legal obligations regarding impaired staff.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine impaired nurses' practice in long-term care.
- To identify causes, signs, and symptoms of chemical dependency in nurses.
- To outline interventions for chemically dependent nurses and their managers.
Main Methods:
- Review of literature on nurse impairment and chemical dependency.
- Analysis of the role and responsibilities of long-term care nurse managers.
- Development of a step-by-step intervention framework.
Main Results:
- Impaired nurses exhibit specific practice deficits and symptoms.
- Nurse managers require education for effective intervention.
- A structured approach facilitates identification, treatment, and return to practice.
Conclusions:
- Early identification and intervention are crucial for chemically dependent nurses.
- Nurse manager education is essential for supporting impaired nurses.
- Successful treatment benefits the nurse, facility, and nursing profession.