Opportunities for an improved role for nurses in psychoactive substance use: Review of the literature

Abstract

Nurses form a core component of many health care systems so their role in responding to problems related to psychoactive substance use is crucial. They are often under-utilized, mainly because of anxieties concerning role adequacy, legitimacy, lack of support and failure to implement interventions in a variety of settings. Nurses have unique opportunities through interactions they have with young people, families and significant others. Training and career preparation should encompass development of innovative strategies, taking a leading role in management of substance use patients, involvement in the treatment of the homeless mentally ill, HIV-infected individuals and persons with dual disorders of mental health and substance use. Future directions should focus on developing skills for critical thinking, preventive and therapeutic interventions, clinical judgement, effective organizational capacity and team work. Barriers such as scope of practice, authority, ethical and legal issues surrounding health care for substance use need to be addressed.

Role development and career stages in addiction nursing: an exploratory study

“…Nurses are acknowledged as key agents in addressing substance misuse at the level of the individual, family and community (WHO/ICN, 1991, Coyne & Clancy 1996, Nkowane & Saxena 2004). Addiction nursing is involved in the assessment, management and care of individuals with problematic use of psychoactive substances (licit and illicit).…”

Opioid replacement therapy: A wait unmanaged

“…‘Self‐doubt’ has been identified as a significant issue confronted by nurses caring for people who misuse substances. Some clinicians doubt their competency in the decision‐making process for this consumer group (Nkowane & Saxena 2004). To overcome this obstacle, education is required.…”

“…Even clinicians who have experience in caring for these consumers identified the need for more training on how to effectively work with consumers who misuse substances. To meet this need, it is suggested that training in substance use intervention be incorporated in education curricula for clinicians (Nkowane & Saxena 2004; Ryrie & McGowan 1998).…”

The Impact of an Education Intervention to Change Nurses’ HIV-Related Knowledge and Attitudes in Lithuania: A Randomized Controlled Trial

“…To provide effective care, nurses need to be equipped with appropriate knowledge and skills (Nkowane & Saxena, 2004). The published data has recommended that the trainings should focus on personal experiences and group support.…”