Anesthesiologists play an especially key role in the medical field. With their vast knowledge of sedating substances, they work in tandem with surgeons and physicians to ensure patients can receive treatment as easily as possible. Unfortunately, the job that revolves around medicine can also include developing a substance use disorder. Banyan’s Chicago addiction treatment center is looking at the phenomenon of anesthesiologist drug addiction.
Addiction in Medical Professionals
It is no surprise that the accessibility of drugs in the anesthesiology professional setting has resulted in the development of countless addictions. Whether due to stress, exhaustion, or a need to focus, doctors, nurses, and other healthcare personnel account for some of the highest numbers of substance use disorders in the workforce. What makes this so dangerous is the amount of responsibility that these individuals hold. A medical professional with an addiction is more likely to cause an accident relating to their patient’s health.
These patients are at their doctor’s mercy and can be in an especially vulnerable position when receiving treatment. In the case of anesthesia, science is extremely meticulous. If not done properly, it can have a serious negative effect on the patient involved. Whether they are aware while performing a procedure or if they have a negative reaction to substance use, an anesthesiologist under the influence runs the risk of causing life-altering damage.
Risk Factors for Drug Abuse in Anesthesiologists
There are certain factors that tend to impact the likelihood of the development of a substance use disorder.
Factors that can contribute to anesthesiologist drug abuse include:
- Direct exposure and access to drugs: The entire purpose of anesthesiology is to effectively manage, handle, and administer substances designed to manage pain and sedate patients. That means these doctors are regularly in contact with some of the most highly addictive substances on the market. Frequent use on patients makes it all that much easier for these workers to stow away drugs for their own personal use.
- Genuine curiosity: Some providers let their curiosity get the best of them. The phrase “curiosity killed the cat” can effectively describe the risks involved with trying an addictive substance, even just once. Although these workers should be well informed of the risks involved, this sadly does not always complete the job of swaying them from drug abuse.
- Workplace stress: It is no secret that working in healthcare is an extremely difficult profession. Whether it is to stay awake during intensely long shifts or ease the emotional burden of losing patients, the abuse of drugs is sadly a temporary solution that will lead to more problems.
We Are Only Human
Healthcare professionals are some of the most dedicated and courageous people out there. The burden that many carry is something that should not be ignored, especially regarding the overall wellness of these individuals. When faced with alcohol or drug addiction, our Chicago drug rehab implores workers to seek out the necessary treatment. We offer Illinois addiction treatment that can help our patients regain control of their lives. Each level of care is designed to comprehensively address the issue at hand and develop effective coping mechanisms to prevent relapse in the future.
To learn more about the programs we offer, call Banyan’s rehab in Chicago at 888-280-4763 for more information today.
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