Substance use amongst inpatients on mental health wards: practical guide for mental health services

15. Appendix C – Nursing process

Flowchart text version:

Stage 1

• Patient suspected of being in possession of substances

Stage 2

• Document details of suspicion

Stage 3

• Request search of patient

Stage 4

• If patient consents, search patient and their bedroom

Stage 5

• If substances are not found, continue to monitor

Stage 6

• If substances are found, continue to search patient and their bedroom
• Store substance in controlled drug cupboard and contact Police Scotland on 101
• If patient does not consent to search, you should call Police Scotland on 101

Stage 7

• Whilst waiting for the police:
  • Obtain a drug screen
  • Obtain details about what has been taken, if anything
  • Check clinical observations and escalate following NEWS
  • Consider the need for enhanced nursing intervention to limit risk to the patient
  • Make the environment safe – attempt to limit the negative impact of substance use on others
  • Ensure the patient has no time out
  • Do not give medication and seek advice for medication plan
  • Complete police statement form

Stage 8

• The police will need:
  • Details of the suspicion/ what has been found etc.
  • Details of those involved
• Make sure this is all written down as you may be off-duty when the police attend

Stage 9

• Ensure the incident, including police reference number, is raised with the Consultant(s) and the Senior Charge Nurse