If a nurse smells alcohol on the breath of another nurse, what is the most appropriate action?

When a nurse detects the smell of alcohol on another nurse's breath, notifying the charge nurse of the situation is the most appropriate action. This step is crucial because it addresses a potential safety risk in the healthcare environment. Nurses have a responsibility to ensure that all team members are fit for duty, as the impairment of one can directly affect patient safety and care quality.

By informing the charge nurse, proper protocols can be initiated. The charge nurse can assess the situation further and decide on necessary actions, such as conducting an evaluation or ensuring that the nurse in question is not in a position to care for patients until the matter is resolved. This approach helps maintain a safe environment for both patients and staff while adhering to institutional policies regarding substance use and impairment.

Other options would not effectively address the immediate concern for patient safety or may lead to further complications. Ignoring the smell or waiting to document for later investigation would not enable timely intervention, which is critical in a healthcare setting where professional performance is paramount. Offering the nurse a chance to explain before taking action may diminish the urgency of the matter and potentially permit unsafe practices to continue.