Changes in general nurses knowledge of alcohol and substance use and misuse after education
Tran, Duong Thuy Stone, Andrea M. Fernandez, Ritin S. Griffiths, Rhonda D. Johnson, Maree
Tran, Duong Thuy
Stone, Andrea M.
Fernandez, Ritin S.
Griffiths, Rhonda D.
Johnson, Maree
Abstract
Purpose: This study aims to assess the impact of an education program on Australian general nurses’ knowledge and competence in identifying and managing patients with alcohol and substance use and misuse, and compare findings with existing literature on mental health nurses. Design and methods: Pre- and posttest design without a control group. Findings: The nurses’ knowledge of safe drinking limits and alcohol withdrawal management improved following the education. Nevertheless, overall the nurses reported a lack of adequate knowledge and competence. Compared to mental health nurses, the nurses in this study had lower levels of knowledge and competence. Practice implications: We suggest several opportunities for general nurses to strengthen their knowledge and skills and the need for a comprehensive and regular education program.
Keywords
education, knowledge, nurses, substance use, survey
Date
2009
Type
Journal article
Journal
Perspectives in Psychiatric Care
Book
Volume
45
Issue
2
Page Range
128-139