Common Factors Related to Illicit Substance Use Among Nurses in North America

Authors

Madison Marshall, Dominican University of CaliforniaFollow
Reinelle Regala, Dominican University of CaliforniaFollow
Lucy Gray, Dominican University of CaliforniaFollow
Emma Pedlar, Dominican University of CaliforniaFollow
Samantha Naguit, Dominican University of CaliforniaFollow

Files

Abstract

The prevalence of illicit substance use among registered nurses, though not widely studied or addressed, is understood to be an essential issue facing healthcare professionals. An impaired nurse is defined as someone who has impaired functioning as a result of substance abuse and it interferes with their professional judgment and ability to deliver safe, high quality care. Registered nurses have access to many high-controlled prescription medications, with little oversight, and the opportunity for substance abuse is significant. In our research, we studied the risk factors, the prevalence, and the preventative measures involved in addressing illicit substance use among nurses.

Department

Nursing

Faculty Advisor

Olivia Catolico, Ph.D., RN, CNL, BC

Publication Date

2017

Sponsorship/Conference/Institution

Department of Nursing, Dominican University of California

City

San Rafael, CA

Keywords

drug use, substance abuse

Disciplines

Nursing