Review recent narcotics sheets and other medication records. For reference, using your own and other nurses' observations, record the signs and symptoms the nurse displays. Once you document the signs and symptoms on paper, it's time to act. It's time for you to address the issue. Intervene as early as possible to help the nurse, your staff, and, most important, your patients.
Intervention requires sensitivity.
Educate yourself and your staff about the physical and social detriments of substance abuse. You all need to support the dependent nurse. Before you talk to the nurse, talk to your hospital's legal department. If the nurse is stealing medications, the hospital may have to file charges based on state and federal law. When you meet with the nurse, ask a human resources representative to attend.