A manager has documentation to suspect substance abuse by a ...

[jenna1]

A manager has documentation to suspect substance abuse by a nurse. The manager meets with HR (human resources) director to determine which course of action should be taken to abide by the organizations policies.
 
  Which of the following statements by the HR director would be appropriate? 1. We should meet with the nurse and offer assistance through the employee assistance program.
  2. We should confront the employee and discuss involuntary or voluntary termination.
  3. You need to meet with this nurse and confront her about these behaviors.
  4. We need to set up a counseling session with a psychologist and this nurse.

Question 2

A manager has noticed the following behaviors with a day shift nurse. The nurses handwriting has become shaky and illegible, and he has mood swings and increased tardiness. The managers first action should be to:
 
  1. Meet with the nurse in private and discuss the above behaviors.
  2. Meet with other staff to determine if this nurse has issues at home.
  3. Meet with HR (human resources) to determine the best method to terminate the employee.
  4. Collect information regarding behaviors, absenteeism, and/or tardiness.

[Viet Thy]

Answer to Question 1

1
Explanation: 1. Most organizations and health profession bureaus offer substance abuse programs for health
care professionals. Termination is typically the last resort. The manager and HR director
should offer the EAP (employee assistance program) but not schedule appointments for the
employee without the employees consent.

Answer to Question 2

4
Explanation: 1. The manager will meet with the nurse but should have information to support the
investigation of substance abuse. Obtaining information from other staff is unprofessional and
violates confidentiality. The manager should meet with HR to determine a course of action but
should have documentation to support suspected abuse prior to HRs involvement. The
manager should obtain information and documentation to determine if there is a problem.