The nurse manager places a staff member on probation because of report

QUESTION

The nurse manager places a staff member on probation because of reports of chemical dependency. The nurse manager should be aware that which of the following statements is true regarding chemical dependency?

a. The chemically dependent employee usually hides any changes in behavior.
b. When confronted with the issue, the affected employee is usually relieved to have someone to talk to about the problem.
c. The chemically impaired nurse affects the entire healthcare organization.
d. Hospital policy, state laws, and nurse practice acts address procedures for the chemically dependent employee in the most general terms.

ANSWER:

ANS: C
A chemically impaired nurse jeopardizes patient care through impaired skills and judgment. She or he also compromises teamwork and continuity as peers attempt to cover deficiencies in work performance for their impaired team member.