Which statements apply to impaired nurses

Which statements apply to impaired nurses? Select all that apply.

1. Uphold the standards of the nursing profession.

2. Provide safe and appropriate care.

3. Increase the potential for medication errors.

4. Cannot recover quickly because of the enhancing effects of the drugs.

5. Increase their clients’ risk of injury.

The correct answer and explanation is:

The correct statements that apply to impaired nurses are:

3. Increase the potential for medication errors.
5. Increase their clients’ risk of injury.

Explanation:

Impaired nurses refer to those who are under the influence of drugs or alcohol, which compromises their ability to perform their duties. Drug impairment can have significant consequences in healthcare, particularly for patient safety.

1. Uphold the standards of the nursing profession: While it is important for all nurses to uphold the standards of the profession, an impaired nurse cannot effectively maintain these standards due to the reduced cognitive and physical abilities caused by substance use. Being impaired compromises their ability to perform tasks competently and follow protocols.
2. Provide safe and appropriate care: Providing safe and appropriate care becomes increasingly difficult for an impaired nurse. Impairment affects the nurse’s decision-making abilities, judgment, and reaction times, making them prone to mistakes that can endanger patients.
3. Increase the potential for medication errors: One of the most critical aspects of nursing is administering medications safely. Impaired nurses are more likely to make medication errors due to diminished cognitive function, forgetfulness, and poor decision-making abilities. These errors could result in harm to patients, such as incorrect dosages or administering the wrong medication.
4. Cannot recover quickly because of the enhancing effects of the drugs: This statement is misleading. While substance use may have long-lasting effects, it is possible for nurses to recover with proper treatment and rehabilitation. The recovery process may take time depending on the extent of impairment and the type of substance involved, but recovery is possible with the right support.
5. Increase their clients’ risk of injury: Impaired nurses can cause physical harm to their patients due to a lack of coordination, poor judgment, or failure to respond quickly to patient needs. For example, they may fail to properly monitor vital signs, administer the correct dosage of medication, or even make errors in patient positioning, all of which could lead to injuries.

In conclusion, the most accurate statements regarding impaired nurses relate to their increased risk of medication errors and putting their patients at higher risk of harm. Ensuring that nurses remain free from impairment is crucial for patient safety and effective care.