Hi everyone, I have never posted before, only commented, but I really needed some good advice, so here goes:
I am a supervisor in a LTC/subacute facility and I suspect that a nurse may possibly be diverting narcs. I know this would be a very strong accusation, so I have been thinking it over carefully for some time now.
First of all, let me explain WHY I am suspecting diversion:
1. I have had to count narcs with this nurse several times (when relief was going to be late and I was to take the keys until the oncoming nurse arrived) as well been present while this nurse was checking her narc count by herself near end of shift. MOST of the time, the count is short. That alone isn't what makes me worry, as I myself have frequently forgotten to sign narcs out in the narc book when I was a floor nurse. However, whenever the count was short, I would immediately remember giving it, and usually remember the time or have it recorded on my "brain sheet." I have also witnessed the same with other nurses. But the nurse I am talking about usually appears as though she does not remember ever giving it, struggles to explain why the count is short, and it appears obvious when she records giving it (after the count was short) that she is just making up a time. I do not feel though that this alone though would be enough to report her, so...
2. This nurse will often request pain meds (narcs) for a new admission before she even assesses them. A doctor has even witnessed and commented on this recently. She often will give me a list of meds she will need before the admission even comes in, and will add a pain med to that list if it is ordered. However, I do not get any meds for her until the patient has arrived to the facility and she is able to see/assess them. I choose to omit the reasoning as to why the supervisor has to get these meds for the nurse in order to not share any information that could possibly give away which facility I work at (we have unique policies/circumstances).
3. The first 2 items I mentioned are always involving the same narcotic: oxycodone (IR). If it was a variety of different narcotics (Ambien, Xanax, etc.) I would not have such a strong suspicion.
While I hate "drama" and would feel AWFUL if this nurse was innocent, I feel as though I need to do/say something because NOT doing anything (if she is guilty) is allowing for this to continue, and if one day she was caught and I was questioned, I would be guilty of not reporting my suspicions (I don't lie, so I would most likely admit to this).
What makes this more awkward is the fact that this nurse and I recently had an argument, so I do not want to be viewed as doing this to "get back at her" (I would NEVER make such a strong allegation out of spite!), and I do not feel comfortable (nor do I think it is wise) to approach her myself. Prior to this, we have never had any issues.
I would like to report this anonymously (if possible), but however, due to my position as supervisor, which makes me the only one capable of making the observations I have made, it would be easy to figure out it was me.
So what do you think I should do? Thanks in advance for your input...
