Drug and Alcohol for Inpatients

This policy applies to all healthcare professionals /care staff working in NHS Lothian including locum, bank and agency staff who, on behalf of NHS Lothian, are involved in the direct care of the patients. NHS Lothian is committed to ensuring working conditions for staff are safe, and does not view violence and aggression as an acceptable part of employment. Our staff have the right to work without the fear of assault or abuse. Patients are asked on admission not to take any medication (including alternative, homeopathic or complementary therapies) that have not been prescribed or approved by their in-patient clinical team. NHS Lothian does allow patients to use legal substances, like alcohol, within its premises, but only when there use has been agreed by the multidisciplinary team and can provide a clear therapeutic benefit for the patient.