What to do with co-worker that is drinking

[robby5313]

I am so frustrated with a co-worker. This nurse calls myself and other co-workers after work hours and on weekends to vent about work. When she calls, it is VERY obvious that she has been drinking alcohol, or taking some other mind-altering substance. She slurs her words and repeats herself over and over. I have never actually witnessed her being impaired at work, but she does have "day old" alcohol on her breath and wears enough perfume to gag a maggot. One night when she WAS on call the answering service was unable to get ahold of her. Then her phone accidentally called a co-worker and there was a recording on her voice mail of a conversation sounding like she was impaired. This was basically swept under the rug by management. Who knows how many other nights she has been like this and no-one knew about it. What do I do? I know she needs help but obviously unless I have proof I cannot report her to the nursing board. Even if she is not actually "drinking" at work.....if you are hungover it affects your work? What to do?

[sleepysnr]

if she is slurred while on call then yes it might be best to call it in to your superviser. however, dont start your own investigation. we just had 3 people suspended because they did not report it. also, i know some people that when they talk, it sounds like they are slurring even though they are completley sober

[robby5313]

Well, thanks for the advice. I realize that no, I do not know for sure that she IS drinking. Lets just say that when she calls various co-workers-including myself-after work and on days off-I can barely understand her because she is slurring so badly and repeating herself over and over--making NO sense. I never know what the heck the conversation is about. I usually do not answer the phone when I see it is her....but I am afraid that possibly she is calling me to let me know important information regarding a patient, possibly an event that happened that I need to know about for the following day. No, I would NEVER confront her by myself. I really do want her to get help. I am afraid that something is going to happen WHEN she is working and she will end up hurt, or hurting a patient. I guess eventually time will tell....

[BluegrassRN]

Why can't you confront her? "When you call during your off hours, you are slurring and repeating yourself like you're drunk or stoned out of your mind. Could you please not drunk dial here? No one appreciates it, and it's getting old." She knows you all are on to her. If she's not drunk or high, she will now be aware that she sounds impaired and she needs to clean up that image.

[sleepysnr]

good idea bluegrass!!

[TakeOne]

good idea bluegrass!!

Actually, it's not a good idea. The statement outright accuses her of drunk dialing, an accusation you can't back up. Even if you're tempted to say it just to test the waters or look for her reaction, don't do it.