Substance Abuse & Patients

Substance Abuse & Patients 2 out of every 5 patients admitted to the hospital may have a substance abuse problem. People with substance abuse problems may experience more health problems that require hospitalization. Many times a drug user may have infections, or a weakened immune system, depending on what substance they have been using.

Patient Interaction When admitting a patient to your floor, after gathering information, and knowing they have a substance abuse problem, it is a good idea to have an open conversation. Don't ignore the elephant in the room. Talk openly about the drugs they have been using so that you have a clear picture to provide documentation on their chart. It's Imperative that all information is charted so that the patient can receive accurate treatment. Discuss what drugs the patient has been using, and be sure not to sound judgmental.

Many patients that have a history of drug or alcohol dependency, may struggle with feelings of guilt and remorse. It is generally advisable to involve a social worker or counselor to work with the patient if they are showing emotional instability.

Concentrate on the medical issues with your patient, and let others deal with the emotional problems. It's best to keep a good boundary line in regards to medical care, and let them share feelings and concerns with the designated parties. Many recovering addicts can be easily drawn to someone that attempts to help them, or to be sympathetic. Many times this is due to the fact that they need to obtain new friends and relationships. When moving away from substance abuse, it most likely will involve moving away from some friendships and developing new ones. This is where professional boundary 101 must be practiced.

Related: What is Social Workers’ Role in Hospitals?

More and more hospitals and doctor offices are seeing a different type of drug dependent individual. No longer is it the homeless person that is strung out on street drugs that is admitted. We now see a wide range of people from all walks of society. Soccer moms, straight A college students, business men and women. Many people are taking what they initially considered to be a little pick me up, and later become addicted. They may have kept it away from family and friends, and eventually it became apparent to everyone. Once stable in a medical facility, the best option is generally a substance abuse center, which can be arranged through social services.

Precautions Obviously, bringing your own medications in the hospital is not permitted, but this does occasionally occur. One patient could have several vodka bottles hidden under her sheets, for example, leading to an obvious smell in the room. It's important to remove any items the patient may have, as it can cause interactions with hospital administered medications. Be aware of visitors that may bring medications into the patient, just keeping a watchful eye out may prevent this from happening.

Related: 5 Reasons Why Being a Pediatric Nurse is the Best Here is an example: There was a 55-year-old patient in the ICU with emphysema, among other conditions. She was on a dangerous amount of an anti-anxiety drug, and was very unhappy that doctors would not administer that dosage to her. She had her husband bring her medication from home, and unfortunately the interaction with her condition and hospital administered drugs cost her everything, as she passed away. Patients often see themselves as invincible, and many assume if all of the medicine that take is prescribed, it's safe. The problem is taking old medication, seeing multiple doctors, and using multiple pharmacies can create a toxic combination of drugs.

Promoting Health Patients are in the hospital to get physically well, so they can then move on for emotional support. Suggesting a healthy diet will be beneficial, fruits and vegetables, with high protein will promote wellness. Also, encourage your patient to get plenty of fluids that is often overlooked when not being active.

Caring for someone that is hospitalized due to drug or alcohol addiction can be challenging at times, however, keep in mind you are quite possibly one of the first steps in the patient's recovery, and their future success may depend on current care and understanding.

Drug addiction has changed, and the typical face of drug addiction has changed. Many people that are struggling may have initially looked for a pick me up to keep up with life's demands, and it went on from there to become a significant problem. As nurses, we are not there to pass judgement or make friends. We are there to provide the patients the best care.

Related: Leading Registered Nurse Marilyn Valerio Abalos, RN, BSN is to be Published in the Worldwide Leaders in Healthcare Please follow us on Facebook, Linkedin, Pinterest and Twitter