Transforming and relating : re-integrating the professional nurse into the work-place after substance dependency treatment

Abstract

The purpose of this exploratory study was to describe the social processes which facilitate or obstruct recovering nurses' reentry into the clinical work setting. Utilizing grounded theory methodology four recovering substance dependent registered nurses described their experience during open ended interviews. A constant comparative analysis of the data was conducted. Re-integration into the work-place consisted of an inner transformation and reorganization of relationships with others. Inner transformation originated with recognizing harmful aspects of the self which arose from substance dependency. The four recovering nurses used strategies to transform these harmful aspects of their character into positive attributes. Two factors characterized the process of re-creating relationships with others. First, nurses' return to work disrupted roles, created discomfort in others, and generated stigma and discrimination. Second, restrictions to practice, and treatment and 12 step support aided the nurses' recovery.