Treatment consists of a wide range of planned, structured and continued activities that are based on an understanding of chemical dependency as a primary disease process in and of itself. Re-entry Nurses returning to practice are taking a significant step in their recovery process. Many nurses return to the nursing unit from which they left. Nurses returning to the workplace show a great deal of anxiety, fear and courage. They will be learning how to restore trust and professional integrity with their colleagues.
Nurses are responsible for their own recovery.
A consistent and structured program enhances this recovery process. Before returning to the agency, a meeting with the nurse and appropriate members of the agency is critical for a smooth re-entry. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss concerns that the nurse and the nurse manager may have and to develop plans for a return to work program. Addressing Colleague's Concerns Recovering nurses usually return to the same workplace. All information about a nurse's chemical dependency is confidential.