Expanded Roles and Responsibilities for Nurses in SBIRT for Alcohol Use ENA/IntNSA Joint Position Statement-Expanded Roles and Responsibilities for Nurses in SBIRT for Alcohol Use ENA/IntNSA Joint Position Statement

Pdf Summary

Alcohol and substance use disorders are significant public health concerns with high economic costs and negative health outcomes. The National Survey on Drug Use and Health found that 19.7 million Americans aged 12 and older had a substance use disorder, with alcohol being the most prevalent. Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT) is a comprehensive approach to addressing substance use disorders, involving screening for potential issues, providing brief interventions and advice, and referring individuals to treatment when necessary.<br /><br />Implementation of SBIRT in healthcare settings has been slow due to various barriers such as lack of resources, outdated policies, and staff turnover. However, nurses are well-positioned to deliver SBIRT due to their trusted position in healthcare and their ability to identify when a patient is in need of intervention. The Emergency Nurses Association (ENA) and the International Nurses Society on Addictions (IntNSA) support the use of SBIRT by nurses in all clinical specialties and practice settings.<br /><br />Research has shown the efficacy of SBIRT in reducing substance use and improving health outcomes. It has been successfully implemented in various settings including primary care, schools, and trauma centers. However, brief intervention alone may be insufficient for individuals with severe substance use disorders, who may require specialized treatment and ongoing support.<br /><br />It is important for nurses to receive education and training in SBIRT, and for academic institutions to integrate SBIRT into nursing curricula. Healthcare institutions should provide support for SBIRT implementation, including education, training, and outcomes evaluation. Nurses should also be involved in research and evidence-based practice to further advance the field of SBIRT.<br /><br />Overall, SBIRT is a valuable approach to addressing substance use disorders, and nurses play a crucial role in its implementation. By expanding their roles and responsibilities in SBIRT, nurses can contribute to reducing the negative impacts of substance use and improving health outcomes.

Meta Tag

SBIRT drugs

SBIRT opioids

SBIRT substance use

SBIRT substance abuse

SBIRT mental health

SBIRT behavioral health

SBIRT screening

SBIRT quality improvement

Keywords

Alcohol

substance use disorders

public health

SBIRT

nurses

healthcare settings

barriers

education and training

research

evidence-based practice