Question

a nurse suspects their coworker might be under the influence of a chemical substance. which of the following actions should the nurse take? counsel the coworker about substance use. report the coworker to the ethics committee at the facility. ask the coworker how long they have been using substances. tell the charge nurse that the coworker might be impaired.

Explanation:

Nurses have a duty to ensure patient - safety. If a nurse suspects a coworker is under the influence, the appropriate initial step is to report to the charge nurse who can take further appropriate action. Counseling is not the first - line response as it requires proper training and is not the immediate concern. Reporting to the ethics committee is not the most immediate step. Asking the coworker about substance use is not the best initial action as it may not lead to proper resolution and is not the standard protocol for such a situation.

Answer:

Tell the charge nurse that the coworker might be impaired.