Connecticut Nursing Board Suspends Licenses of Two Nurses and Disciplines Four Others
The Connecticut Board of Examiners for Nursing recently took action against six licensed nurses related to issues involving drug abuse, drug diversion, and failure to follow regulations regarding required collaboration with a physician.
Two of the nurses had their licenses suspended. One of those two was deemed “a clear and immediate danger” to the public should she be allowed to continue practicing as a nurse. The other nurse was suspended for three months and placed on probation for four years. Both of the nurses failed to comply with the state Department of Public Health’s orders—one to undergo substance abuse evaluation and the other to undergo weekly drug testing and therapy.
Four other nurses were disciplined by the nursing board. Three nurses were placed on four years of probation due to drug diversion and substance abuse. The substances involved were hydromorphone, oxycontin, clonidine, benzodiazepines, marijuana, and alcohol. The three nurses suspended for substance abuse were required to undergo therapy and random drug testing.
The board also reprimanded and suspended for one year an advance practice nurse (APRN) for his failure to practice in collaboration with a physician for the first three years after getting his APRN license. His probation included additional coursework in advanced-level nursing scope of practice, documentation of his practicing in collaboration with a physician, and quarterly reports from that physician.
Compliance Perspective
Failing to ensure that nursing staff are competent, not impaired by substance abuse, and not diverting controlled medications intended for use by the residents may be considered provision of substandard quality of care in violation of state and federal regulations.
Discussion Points:
- Review policies and procedures regarding prevention and detection of drug diversion and random drug testing of nursing staff to ensure that residents are not being placed in immediate danger by a nurse abusing substances and who may be diverting medications for personal use.
- Train staff about the facility’s policies and procedures regarding drug diversion and any random drug testing that the facility may require. Encourage staff members to be alert and report to their supervisor or through the Hotline any co-worker who may be suspected of diverting controlled medications or abusing drugs or alcohol.
- Periodically audit the medication log to determine if there is indication of drug diversion, including inspecting medication packaging that may show potential tampering has occurred.
