Position Statement

Impaired Practice (Position Statement + Practice Considerations)

Last AANA revision: 2022

Substance use disorder rates in anesthesia are 2–3× the general nursing population due to access. AANA supports peer-assistance programs over punitive responses, with emphasis on early intervention, treatment, and structured re-entry.

Key points

1.Recognize signs: missing controlled substances, frequent bathroom breaks, behavioral changes, declining performance
2.Anesthesia Provider Wellness Resources / Peer-assistance programs in 40+ states
3.Self-report + intervene early — earlier intervention = better outcomes
4.Re-entry requires supervision, monitoring, structured drug testing (AANA Re-Entry Guide)
5.Fentanyl + sufentanil highest-risk diversions; midazolam + propofol common as well

This is an exam-prep summary, not a substitute for the full AANA document. Read the source at aana.com for authoritative wording. Education only.