reprimands, probation, suspension or revocation of license. Some ASCs have adopted policies and procedures that support a drug-free workplace. These policies describe un- acceptable behaviors and consequenc- es, whether termination or assistance may be offered, and procedures for em- ployee drug testing and circumstances. These policies are often reviewed dur- ing employee orientation and regularly afterward. Personnel policies designed to support a drug-free workplace some- times also include guidance on griev- ances, last chance agreements, return to work agreements and performance monitoring and review. Reporting a colleague who has a substance abuse problem could be tricky. See the box on page 9 for general guidelines.
The intercession with the substance
abuser may involve an Employee As- sistance Program (EAP) representa- tive. A family member might need to be contacted prior to the intercession; this decision should be made in con- sultation with your human resources department and EAP representative. The goals of the intercession are to get the substance abuser to accept help and follow through with fur- ther evaluation. The manager’s role is not to diagnose or plan treatment for substance abuse, but to direct the employee for further evaluation and treatment as indicated. The outcome of an intercession could be a warning or probation or a mandated treatment program or suspension or termination with or without a report to the state professional regulatory body.
Summary
Addiction is a chronic relapsing ill- ness, like diabetes or cancer, except for the stigma it places on those who experience it. It is a complex disease that has neurochemical and biologi- cal causes as a foundation; it is not a moral failure or a character deficit. Colleagues need to be sensitive to problems, act with compassion to dis- cover what is going on and be willing to make a call for help to a program such as peer assistance services. Come to ASCA 2013 to learn more on this and many other topics that will help you improve your ASC’s human resources program and the quality of care your ASC provides.
Cecil A. King, RN, lives in Provincetown, Massachusetts.
10 ASC FOCUS APRIL 2013
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