Substance Abuse & Ethics

About this episode

The episode discusses ethical concerns regarding a physical therapist's colleague suspected of substance abuse based on observed behaviors.

Brendaisha is a physical therapist who becomes concerned about a colleague who previously completed rehabilitation for substance abuse. Over the past several weeks, the colleague has demonstrated increasing tardiness, reduced attention during patient care, and episodes of excessive drowsiness while completing documentation. No direct evidence of substance use has been observed, and no adverse patient events have occurred. Which of the following actions is MOST appropriate? A) Report the colleague to the state licensing board due to suspected relapse B) Delay intervention unless patient safety is clearly compromised C) Discuss the observed behaviors privately with the colleague and follow organizational reporting policies if concerns continue D) Continue monitoring the situation until substance use can be objectively verified Text our team the word COACH for a free diagnostic: (727) 732-4573 Join the FREE Facebook Group: www.nptegroup.com

People in this episode

Host: Kyle Rice

Topics covered

• substance abuse
• ethics
• physical therapy
• colleague behavior
• patient safety

Keywords

• substance abuse
• ethics
• physical therapy
• tardiness
• patient care

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: NPTE

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