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Difficulty: MediumHigh Risk Behaviors

While completing an annual wellness screening at a manufacturing plant, an employee tells the practical nurse (PN), "I smoke a joint during my lunch break to manage chronic shoulder pain. It helps me focus better when I go back to operating the forklift." Which action should the PN take first?

  1. Instruct the employee to stop operating the machinery and immediately report the finding to the supervising registered nurse.Answer
  2. B
    Inform the employee that they must complete a mandatory urine toxicology screen before returning to the warehouse floor.
  3. C
    Ask the employee, "Why would you risk your safety and your employment by using illicit drugs at work?"
  4. D
    Provide the employee with educational materials about non-pharmacological interventions for chronic shoulder pain.

Answer

The practical nurse should instruct the employee to stop operating the machinery and immediately report the finding to the supervising registered nurse.
The correct answer directly addresses the acute safety threat. Operating heavy machinery while under the influence of a substance is a severe high-risk behavior. The PN must prioritize immediate safety by ensuring the employee does not return to the forklift, and then promptly report the situation to the RN or supervisor in accordance with the chain of command.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the client's statement to identify any immediate safety risks.
The client admits to using a mind-altering substance (marijuana) immediately prior to operating heavy machinery (a forklift).
Recognizing high-risk behaviors is essential for preventing workplace injuries and maintaining a safe environment.
2
Determine the priority of care based on the identified risk.
Immediate intervention is required to prevent the employee from returning to the forklift.
Safety takes precedence over ongoing health education or exploring the root cause of the client's pain.
3
Select the intervention that aligns with the PN scope of practice.
The PN must halt the dangerous activity and report the critical safety concern to the supervising RN or facility management.
The PN cannot independently order drug screens or clear the employee for work, necessitating immediate escalation.

Key Concept

Prioritization of Safety and Scope of Practice in Occupational Health
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Topics

High Risk Behaviors

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