Hiring nurses re-entering the workforce after chemical dependence

Abstract

Although many studies may have been conducted to gain greater insight into the experiences of chemically impaired nurses, few, if any, studies focused on understanding and explaining the experiences of administrators who have hired, fired, or supervised chemically rehabilitated professionals.  Imogene King’s conceptual system and theory of goal attainment forms the framework for this study because the model is focused on three interacting systems identified as personal, interpersonal, and social systems.  King views people as dynamic human beings whose discernment of persons, events, and objects guide their behaviors, social interactions, and physical well-being. This phenomenological study explored, the lived experiences of administrators, supervisors, and managers who have hired, fired, or supervised recovered chemical dependent nurses. Direct Nurse Managers’ perceptions and attitudes about rehabilitated professionals from chemical dependency who are re-entering practice are explored as well. The participants in the study unveiled assumptions as well as personal and professional insights about chemically rehabilitated professionals returning to the work setting.  The themes that emerged from the study included demonstration of compassion, concern for the assignment of duties, the influence of personal values (forgiveness, acceptance, and respect for others), and concern for eligibility of employment and for the successful completion of the IPN program. The results from the study add to existing nursing literature and may assist leaders to construct a work setting conducive to meeting the goals set forth by nursing administrators as well as provide insight into and acceptance of the rehabilitated professional in the work setting.