Opioid Use Disorder in the Nursing Profession

Presented by Kristin Waite-Labott, RN, BSN, CARN; April Lynn Lenzmeier, RN, DNP; Rachel Shuster, BSN, RN, CARN, CAAP. The American Nurses Association estimates that six to eight percent of nurses use alcohol or drugs to an extent that is sufficient to impair professional performance. Others estimate that nurses generally misuse drugs and alcohol at nearly the same rate (10 to 15 percent) as the rest of the population. By raising awareness and decreasing stigma, we can identify and help those struggling to find the help they need to practice safely. It is an issue that requires a multifaceted approach to realize it’s scope, to detect opioid use disorder (OUD) early, and to help those with OUD before they cause irreparable harm to themselves and others. This presentation aims to raise awareness and reduce the stigma associated with OUD in nurses. Current statistics on OUD in nurses will be reviewed. Our personal stories of OUD and recovery will be shared while reviewing how to recognize a coworker who may be suffering from an OUD. Examples of alternative to discipline programs will be discussed including the programs completed by the presenters. Funding for this initiative was made possible (in part) by grant no. 1H79TI081968 from SAMHSA. The views expressed in written conference materials or publications and by speakers and moderators do not necessarily reflect the official policies of the Department of Health and Human Services; nor does mention of trade names, commercial practices, or organizations imply endorsement by the U.S. Government. Visit https://intnsa.org; https://www.intnsa.org/elearning-port....