Union's drugs fear for nurses

Unison wants guidelines issued to nursing staff

Health professionals are to call on the Scottish Executive to issue guidelines on how illegal drug users should be nursed.

Public service union Unison has claimed its members could face prosecution unless guidance is issued quickly.

Its concern stems from the prosecution of two people in Cambridge after it was found that people in their homeless unit were taking drugs.

There was no suggestion that the nurses were involved in taking drugs themselves.

The police can prosecute nurses who fail to report illegal drug use

Illegal drugs are said to pose problems for nurses

At an event at the SECC in Glasgow, organised by Nursing Times magazine, a seminar will be held where the potential conflict of interest will be discussed.

Bridget Hunter, the union's lead nursing officer, said the subject must be addressed seriously.

She said: "After the arrest and conviction of the Cambridge Two, and recent raids on psychiatric wards in Scotland, it is clear that people who care for drug users are at risk of prosecution and no-one appears to be discussing the issue.

"We want the Scottish Executive to grasp this nettle, start the discussions with all sides and get trusts to issue protocols that will protect nursing staff caught in the dilemma between the law and the best interests of the patient."

'Ducked the issue'

The union said many members could be in a difficult position citing the example of health visitors visiting premises where drugs might be used.

Problems could also arise, warns the union, for staff on mental health wards where patients could be using drugs as a result of their illness.

Ms Hunter said: "Despite the pressing need and the potential clash between the law and the professional regulations governing nursing, even our professional body has ducked the issue.

"The police are clear that they will prosecute nurses who fail to report illegal drug use."

She added: "We need clear guidelines from our employers on how we should respond when faced with these issues in our jobs."