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Licensed Practical Nurse Mock Interview

Question 6 of 30 for our Licensed Practical Nurse Mock Interview

Licensed Practical Nurse was updated by on August 21st, 2017. Learn more here.

Question 6 of 30

If you suspected that one of your co-workers was abusing drugs, how would you handle the situation?

Working in healthcare is stressful, and even healthcare professionals are not exempt from developing addiction issues and unhealthy coping mechanisms. Statistics show that there has been an increase of healthcare providers who abuse prescription drugs or illegal substances. Unfortunately, this trend creates more strain on the healthcare providers who do not abuse drugs. The interviewer wants to know that you are capable of identifying signs of drug abuse and that you will make professional decisions to ensure the safety of your patients and the healthcare team.

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How to Answer: If you suspected that one of your co-workers was abusing drugs, how would you handle the situation?

Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Licensed Practical Nurse job interview.

  • 6. If you suspected that one of your co-workers was abusing drugs, how would you handle the situation?

      How to Answer

      Working in healthcare is stressful, and even healthcare professionals are not exempt from developing addiction issues and unhealthy coping mechanisms. Statistics show that there has been an increase of healthcare providers who abuse prescription drugs or illegal substances. Unfortunately, this trend creates more strain on the healthcare providers who do not abuse drugs. The interviewer wants to know that you are capable of identifying signs of drug abuse and that you will make professional decisions to ensure the safety of your patients and the healthcare team.

      Written by Heather Douglass on February 16th, 2020

      Entry Level

      "If I suspected any drug abuse by a co-worker, I would direct any suspicion to my supervisor right away. Working while under the influence of any drug, illegal or not, could impair a nurse's ability to provide proper care. I am obligated, in the interest of protecting my patients, to report any concerns to my supervisor so that they can assess the situation, and take appropriate action."

      Written by Darby Faubion on January 22nd, 2019

      Answer Example

      "It is impossible to give proper care to others if we are working in an impaired state. If I suspected that a co-worker was abusing drugs, I would ask to speak to my supervisor privately and disclose my concerns."

      Written by Heather Douglass on February 16th, 2020

      Experienced

      "First, I would ask my coworker if they were feeling well. There are illnesses, such as diabetes, that can mimic intoxication if not properly managed. Talking to my coworker will give me an idea of what may be going on. This initial assessment is important because I must report accurate information to my supervisor. While the symptoms may be a true health issue that is mimicking drug or alcohol use, I have to report suspicions to my supervisor so that they can get to the source of the issue."

      Written by Darby Faubion on January 22nd, 2019