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STAFFING
Lisa Moschkau, RN, BSN, MASL
Do You Have an Addict on Staff?
How to deal with suspected alcohol and substance abuse.
H
ave you ever smelled alcohol on the breath of an employee or
been unable to explain away erratic behavior as a string of
bad days? Those are the red flags of alcohol or substance
abuse that jeopardize staff and patient safety. Here's how to address
the situation.
1. Observe. The smell of alcohol is somewhat obvious, but illegal
drug abusers are sometimes more challenging to detect. Look for patterns of inappropriate or bizarre behavior, or mildly inappropriate
behavior that threatens patients or staff. If suspected
employees are on duty, you have a responsibility to act. If they're off-duty, your responsibility to them is rooted in concern for their
well-being, not as a work supervisor.
2. Document. If you suspect substance abuse,
the appropriate action is based on the frequency
and severity of the warning signs. Document every
questionable behavior by noting the date it occurred
and what you noticed or what was said between
SECRET LIFE Even your most
trusted employees could fall victim to substance abuse.
you and the suspect employee. Before acting,
always double-check your observations with
O U T PAT I E N T S U R G E R Y M A G A Z I N E O N L I N E | F E B R U A R Y 2013
