Substance Use Disorder (SUD) is a serious health concern affecting individuals across professions, and nursing is no exception. It’s a chronic condition where someone compulsively uses substances despite harmful consequences. For nurses, SUD not only jeopardizes their well-being but also poses significant risks to patient safety. Recognizing and addressing SUD is crucial for the health of nurses and the integrity of healthcare. Ignoring SUD can lead to severe repercussions, endangering both the nurse’s life and the lives entrusted to their care.
Understanding Substance Use Disorder (SUD)
Substance Use Disorder is characterized by the continued use of alcohol or drugs despite negative impacts on one’s life. This illness follows a cycle of compulsive use, often with periods of controlled use interspersed with episodes of loss of control. These episodes result in adverse consequences affecting various aspects of life. For nurses, the high-stress environment and demanding nature of the profession can unfortunately contribute to the development or exacerbation of SUD.
The KARE Program: A Care Program for Kentucky Nurses
The Kentucky Board of Nursing (KBN) offers the KARE Program, a confidential and supportive care program specifically designed for Licensed Practical Nurses, Registered Nurses, and Advanced Practice Registered Nurses in Kentucky struggling with SUD. To be eligible for the KARE Program, nurses must voluntarily request participation in writing and admit to a problem with alcohol and/or drug abuse or dependence. Applicants must undergo a SUD evaluation by a KBN-approved evaluator and adhere to all recommended treatment. While participating in the program and until approved by KARE, nurses are restricted from working in patient care settings or any role requiring a nursing license. Nurses who have been terminated from similar programs in Kentucky or other states due to non-compliance may not be eligible.
Program Completion and Consequences of Non-Compliance
Successful completion of the KARE Program hinges on full compliance with all program agreement terms. This commitment ensures the nurse’s progress and safe return to practice. Conversely, failure to maintain compliance or resolve non-compliance issues can lead to termination from the KARE Program. Such termination can result in the suspension or denial of license reinstatement. It’s important to understand that a suspension or denied reinstatement is a disciplinary action that is reported to national nursing databases and other relevant bodies. The KBN staff determines program agreement violations, guided by applicable laws and regulations.
Accessing Resources and Documents
For nurses seeking more information or wishing to enroll, the KARE Program provides readily accessible forms and documents. These resources, including the KARE Participant Handbook, are available on the KBN website’s Compliance Forms and Documents page or by searching the KBN document library for “compliance.” These resources offer comprehensive details about the program, its requirements, and the support it provides to nurses on their journey to recovery and safe practice.
Navigating SUD is a challenging journey, but programs like KARE offer crucial support for nurses. By providing a structured and confidential pathway to recovery, these care programs for nurses are vital for protecting both the well-being of nurses and the safety of patients. Seeking help is a sign of strength, and resources are available to support nurses in overcoming substance use challenges and returning to a healthy and fulfilling career in nursing.
