6th Edition of World Nursing Science Conference 2026

Abstract

Background: 

With the growing deadly opioid epidemic in the US and worldwide (Kandil, 2021), an unprecedented surge in “post-pandemic” alcohol use and dependence (Rodriguez et al., 2020), and a constant flood of new and novel drugs-of-abuse haemorrhaging into our communities (US DEA, 2022) – it has never been more critical for nurse and advanced practice nurses to understand the evidence-based treatment options for patients afflicted with the disease of addiction.  Likewise, state and federal prescriber regulations are changing dizzyingly.  Just this year, we have seen the federal removal of the “X-waiver” requirement for Suboxone prescribers in America (SAMHSA, 2023), impending guideline changes for telehealth requirements (telehealth.hhs.gov, 2023), and government experts and regulatory bodies struggling to keep up with legislation and policy to address the novel psychoactive drugs hitting US and global markets (National Institute of Justice, 2022).  As leaders in healthcare, nurses and the nursing profession must remain abreast of these treatment options and regulatory policy changes to best serve the patients under our care and in our communities.

Purpose:  To provide a nurse-oriented educational presentation covering the available data on the true scope of the substance abuse problem in the US and worldwide, to review available evidence-based treatment options for patients struggling with addiction, and to summarize the recent regulatory changes affecting the provision of care for patients with substance use disorders.

Objectives:

■ Enhance the knowledge of practising nurses regarding the true extent and dangers of the expanding opioid epidemic, rising levels of alcohol consumption and dependence post-pandemic, and risks of rising rates of stimulant abuse and addiction.

■ Educate nursing professionals on the changing regulatory landscape impacting patients’ access to treatment and care for addiction and dependency diagnoses.

■ Motivate nurses and advanced-practice nurses to be active participants and patient advocates in their communities, places of work, and legislatively in support of evidence-based and effective medication-assisted treatment (MAT) options for patients