What should a nurse do if another nurse arrives for duty with alcohol on her breath?

In situations where a nurse arrives for duty exhibiting potential signs of impairment, such as the smell of alcohol on her breath, the priority is to ensure patient safety. Taking measures to remove the nurse from patient care activities is a critical response to prevent any risks to patients that may arise from a nurse's impaired ability to perform her duties effectively.

It is essential to recognize that the nurse's presence on the unit could compromise patient care and safety. By acting promptly to remove her from the care environment, the nurse can help mitigate any potential harm to patients while also initiating a process that can address the underlying issue of substance use.

Ensuring the well-being of patients is the primary responsibility of any healthcare professional, and when there is evidence of impairment, immediate action is warranted to protect patients and uphold the standards of practice codified in the Nurse Practice Act.