Texas Board of Nursing (BON) Practice Exam

If a nurse is aware of a coworker's impairment due to substance abuse, what should they do?

1. Talk to the coworker directly

2. Report the coworker's impairment to a supervisor or appropriate authority

3. Ignore the situation

4. Encourage the coworker to seek help

The correct answer is: Report the coworker's impairment to a supervisor or appropriate authority

When a nurse is aware of a coworker's impairment due to substance abuse, the most appropriate action is to report the coworker's impairment to a supervisor or the appropriate authority. This is crucial because the safety of patients is the primary concern in the nursing profession. Impairment can significantly affect a nurse’s ability to provide safe and effective care, posing a risk not only to the impaired nurse but also to patients, coworkers, and the healthcare facility as a whole. Reporting the impairment allows for appropriate interventions to be initiated, which may include assessment and treatment for the impaired nurse. This action aligns with the ethical and professional responsibilities of nurses to advocate for patient safety and ensure that all healthcare providers are fit to perform their duties. It's important to take this step promptly rather than discussing the issue directly with the coworker or ignoring the issue, which could lead to serious consequences for patients. Encouraging the coworker to seek help is a supportive approach but must be accompanied by reporting to ensure that the matter is taken seriously and managed appropriately within the healthcare setting.