Which symptom might indicate substance abuse in a nurse?

Which symptom might indicate substance abuse in a nurse?

• A. Steady improvement in job performance
• B. Changes in behavior, increased absenteeism, mood swings, and poor job performance
• C. Consistent attendance at work
• D. Positive interpersonal relationships

Answer: (B)

The presence of changes in behavior, increased absenteeism, mood swings, and poor job performance can be significant indicators of substance abuse in a nurse. These symptoms may suggest that the nurse is struggling with problems related to substance use, which can impact their ability to perform effectively in their role and provide safe patient care. Changes in behavior can include a shift in how the nurse interacts with colleagues or patients, possibly becoming more withdrawn or displaying irritability. Increased absenteeism is a common sign, as those experiencing substance abuse may have difficulty maintaining regular attendance due to the effects of their substance use or the consequences of it. Mood swings can reflect the emotional instability often associated with substance abuse and can affect relationships and professional interactions. Poor job performance is critical as it denotes a decline in the quality of care given to patients, which is a serious concern in the nursing profession. In contrast, improvements in job performance, consistent attendance, and positive interpersonal relationships typically signify a well-adjusted individual who is handling their professional responsibilities effectively and are not indicative of substance abuse.

The presence of changes in behavior, increased absenteeism, mood swings, and poor job performance can be significant indicators of substance abuse in a nurse. These symptoms may suggest that the nurse is struggling with problems related to substance use, which can impact their ability to perform effectively in their role and provide safe patient care.

Changes in behavior can include a shift in how the nurse interacts with colleagues or patients, possibly becoming more withdrawn or displaying irritability. Increased absenteeism is a common sign, as those experiencing substance abuse may have difficulty maintaining regular attendance due to the effects of their substance use or the consequences of it. Mood swings can reflect the emotional instability often associated with substance abuse and can affect relationships and professional interactions. Poor job performance is critical as it denotes a decline in the quality of care given to patients, which is a serious concern in the nursing profession.

In contrast, improvements in job performance, consistent attendance, and positive interpersonal relationships typically signify a well-adjusted individual who is handling their professional responsibilities effectively and are not indicative of substance abuse.