What is the most productive response for a nurse toward a colleague suspected of impairment?

• A. Reporting the suspicion to a supervisor appropriately.
• B. Discussing the issue with other colleagues first.
• C. Ignoring the signs and waiting for them to improve.
• D. Confronting the colleague privately.

Answer: (A)

The most productive response for a nurse toward a colleague suspected of impairment is to report the suspicion to a supervisor appropriately. This approach is crucial because it ensures that the situation is handled professionally and within the established protocols of the healthcare setting. Reporting allows for a formal assessment of the colleague's condition, which may involve monitoring for safety, providing appropriate interventions, and ensuring patient care is not compromised. It also aligns with the ethical responsibility of nurses to prioritize patient safety and uphold the standards of professional conduct.

Addressing the issue with a supervisor helps to prevent any potential harm that could occur if the colleague's impairment continues unaddressed. It ensures that there are appropriate resources and support systems in place for both the impaired colleague and the patients involved. Additionally, it protects the nurse from potential liability and emotional distress that could result from handling the situation internally with colleagues or confronting the colleague directly, which may not yield the desired outcome and could lead to further complications.