The Connecticut Nursing News (2002) reports that one out of every 10 nurses struggles with the disease of addiction. One study has identified substance abuse as the number one reason named by state boards for nursing for disciplinary action (Sullivan and Decker, 2001).
Many states allow nurses to continue to work while undergoing treatment for addiction to illegal drugs, prescription medications and alcohol.
Do you believe these nurses should be allowed to continue working with special limitations on their license?