Substance Use Disorders: An Introduction for Nurses and Healthcare Professionals

Course Introduction

This self-study course provides an overview of substance use disorder for nurses and other healthcare professionals (or nursing/healthcare professions students) who are interested in an introduction to this health issue.

This course comprises 4 modules, which will include video, readable content, self-check questions, and other activities. Though some of the information and videos refer to the state of Indiana, the content related to nursing practice is applicable to nurses anywhere, and nationwide resources are provided throughout the course.

This activity was funded by the Commission for Higher Education of the State of Indiana, CARES Mental Health Programs and developed in partnership with the Indiana University School of Nursing and Indiana University Responding to the Addictions Crisis Grand Challenge.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this activity, learners will be able to:

• Describe substance use disorder in the context of a chronic disease

• Identify treatment options within the context of their practice community/population

• Discuss specific harm reduction strategies that can be recommended to patients and families

• Describe strategies to mitigate stigma impact on those affected by substance use disorder

• Locate relevant resources in their community for patients and families