Nursing Addictions

Kind of a downer subject to start the new year with, but several things have happened that have brought the subject front and center.

A nurse and a CNA I know had to check themselves into rehab to avoid a trip to jail. I've had several complaints lately that involved CNA's taking smoke breaks at inappropriate times. And another CNA confessed her meth addiction to me and then asked me not to "think less" of her.

Jeez.

I am lucky that I don't have an addictive personality. But why does it seem so prevalent in our profession? Is it that we give so much of ourselves to our residents that we need to replace what we've lost with a chemical?

I jokingly suggested to my meth infused co-worker that she take up running. She could use a positive outlet for her negative emotions. She laughed at me and said it's time for her to "grow up" and that the last time she ran was in eighth grade. She'll just start drinking again instead.

Jeez, again.

I have been told by more than one source that if they drug tested our facility there would be about five employees left. Three, if it's a weekend and they were testing for alcohol, too. All of the aforementioned people are reasonably good employees and care about their residents.

Maybe there's no solution. Maybe we really do need to replace what we give with something else. Me, I'm taking up running this year. Maybe next year I'll be able to run a couple races. Maybe in two years I'll run a half marathon.

I'll let you know if I get addicted.