Behavioral Signs of Staff Diversion

One of the most effective ways to detect drug diversion is by observing behavioral changes. Most individuals who divert drugs will eventually exhibit signs — whether physical, emotional, or professional.

Key Behavioral Indicators:

🔹 Unusual Attendance Patterns

• Frequently staying late or arriving early
• Volunteering to work alone
• Avoiding vacations or sick days (so no one else sees the inventory)

🔹 Inconsistent or Secretive Work Habits

• Logging drug use at odd hours or outside of normal workflow
• Insisting on being the one to complete inventory tasks
• Locking others out of areas they previously had access to

🔹 Deteriorating Job Performance

• Increase in mistakes or forgetfulness
• Missing scheduled appointments or running behind frequently
• Disorganized charting or incomplete documentation

🔹 Unexplained Personal Changes

• Dramatic weight loss or gain
• Changes in mood — irritability, secrecy, paranoia
• Financial stress, frequent borrowing, or sudden spending changes

🔹 Documentation Irregularities

• Frequent corrections to logbooks
• Illegible handwriting or missing initials
• Patterns of “lost doses” or over-documented waste

🛑 Do not ignore small inconsistencies. Diversion often starts small and escalates over time. Early intervention can prevent harm to the individual and the practice.