Getting Peer Assistance Help for Yourself and Others

Steps for CRNAs and students to get help if the issue is:​
Life threatening/potential immediate risk for harm to self or others: 
  • Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room or treatment center
  • Call the Suicide Hotline 1(800) 273-TALK (8255). Veterans, press extension 1.
Drug or alcohol related:
If it's not for alcohol or drug related issue, some options:   
 See also the AANA Peer Assistance FAQs​
  
 

 Reasons to seek help:

 

Alcohol and drug misuse are progressive diseases.  The consequences of not seeking help for nurse anesthetists and other healthcare professionals include:

  • Damage to physical and mental health
  • Workplace mistakes
  • Impaired decision making threatens patient safety
  • Risk of malpractice
  • Felony convictions
  • Loss or restrictions on nursing license
  • Prohibited from CRNA practice 
  • Financial loss
  • Family distress and ultimate loss
  • Accidents, and
  • Death​
 

 Treatment

 
​
Anesthesia professionals and students have unique treatment needs, see AANA Peer Assistance Advisors' recommendations. 
 

 Re-Entry to Work

 
​Anesthesia providers face special occupational risks and challenges when returning to the workplace.  See the post treatment recommendations.