Substance Use Among Middle-Level Nurse Managers

OBJECTIVE: This study examined the prevalence of alcohol and drug use among middle-level nurse managers (MLNMs) and explored the associations between individual and workplace characteristics and substance use. BACKGROUND: Substance use (SU) among nurses is a longstanding concern, yet MLNMs who carry substantial clinical and administrative responsibilities remain largely overlooked in the literature. METHODS: A national sample of 234 MLNMs completed an online, cross-sectional survey. Binary logistic regression was used to explore the relationships between work-related factors and substance use. RESULTS: 13.42% of MLNMs screened positive for unhealthy alcohol use, and 75.63% reported some level of drug use. Mid-career to late-career MLNMs had higher odds of drug use. Master's-prepared MLNMs showed lower odds of both drug use and alcohol use problems, and longer registered nurse experience was linked to lower odds of drug use. By specialty, medical-surgical and pediatrics were associated with higher odds of drug use. CONCLUSIONS: These findings highlight the need for wellness-focused leadership development and structural changes to reduce work-related risks.