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ADDICTION IN HEALTHCARE WORKERS
Substance abuse is a serious concern in the nursing profession. ... Early identification and treatment of the chemically dependent healthcare worker is important for the safety of the public and for the well-being of the nurse and her profession. ... In this article we will learn more about addiction as a disease, and what recovery really is.
Addiction is a disease. ... Like any other disease, addiction is progressive and predictable. ... Addiction is the hijacking of the autonomic nervous system-the primary learning system, the pleasure reward cycle. ...
The neurotransmitter dopamine is now believed to be the master molecule of addiction. ...
Healthcare workers who were dependent on chemical substances identified a number of factors that they believe led to their problems: psychological or physical pain, emotional problems too great to handle, and a demanding work environment with pressures that were too physically or emotionally taxing. ... It is important to remember that the workplace is the last place for the addiction to be discovered since health professionals typically conceal their addiction in the workplace in order to maintain their supply of drugs. ... These healthcare professionals usually possess a history of sexual trauma, family problems, previous emotional or mental problems, or a family history of chemical dependency. ... These programs are voluntary, confidential, and nonpunitive,
page five
providing needed help for the impaired healthcare worker, in addition to protecting
the health and safety of the public. ...
Remember addiction is a powerful brain disease expressed in the form of compulsive behavior, a medical condition that demands formal treatment. ...
Treatment non-compliance is the biggest cause of relapses for all chronic illnesses, including asthma, diabetes, hypertension, and addiction.
Approximate Word count = 1353
Approximate Pages = 5.4
(250 words per page double spaced)
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