NU 643 Week 11 Assignment 1
Introduction
It is vital for practitioners specializing in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioners (PMHNP) to possess comprehensive knowledge regarding the various substances that can lead to dependence, encompassing both prescription medications and recreational drugs. Additionally, it is crucial to comprehend the impact of these substances on an individual’s physiological and psychological aspects. The Bluelight Organization is a reliable source of information for anyone seeking knowledge about drug utilization. As per the findings of the Bluelight Organization, Fentanyl is accessible in diverse formulations, including patches for the body, oral tablets, and intranasal sprays (Bluelight, 2023). The site provides comprehensive guidance on the appropriate administration of fentanyl, alongside cautionary information concerning the perils associated with its misuse, encompassing the potential for overdose and fatality. In the course of my academic inquiry, I conducted research on fentanyl, a highly potent synthetic opioid. I contemplated the potential utility of this knowledge within my professional role as a physician specializing in psychiatric mental health nursing practice (PMHNP).
Findings and Reflection
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I have identified the critical significance of educating patients and their relatives regarding the hazards associated with fentanyl utilization, encompassing the potentiality of an overdose event. Furthermore, patients must be adequately educated by their PMHNPs regarding the numerous treatment options for opioid addiction that are currently accessible(Bachyrycz et al., 2019). PMHNP practitioners must know the symptoms and warning indicators associated with fentanyl overdose. Additionally, they should be responsible for educating clients and their family members about the inherent hazards associated with the utilization of fentanyl. Common indicators of a fentanyl overdose encompass respiratory difficulties, heightened somnolence, cognitive confusion, and constricted pupils. Furthermore, healthcare professionals must comprehensively understand naloxone, a medication utilized to treat opioid addiction. These professionals should actively encourage clients to obtain and maintain access to this medication(Bachyrycz et al., 2019).
Furthermore, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) must effectively identify individuals who may exhibit a heightened susceptibility to opiate utilization and subsequent addiction. Several risk factors have been identified for opioid addiction, including a history of trauma, prior drug use disorders, previously diagnosed psychological disorders, and a family history of addictive behavior (Bachyrycz et al., 2019). Healthcare professionals are responsible for evaluating patients’ potential risk factors and implementing suitable interventions, including cognitive behavioral and medication-assisted therapy.
Additionally, PMHNP physicians must collaborate with other medical professionals, including addiction specialists, to deliver comprehensive therapy to patients with drug use disorders. The integration of multiple disciplines is necessary for therapy due to the intricate nature of addiction as a condition (Bachyrycz et al., 2019). To optimize patient care and treatment outcomes, physicians must engage in interdisciplinary collaboration with healthcare professionals, thereby facilitating the provision of suitable treatment modalities such as inpatient or outpatient therapy and developing individualized care plans that align with patients’ distinct requirements.
Ultimately, PMHNP specialists must possess comprehensive knowledge regarding the potential hazards linked to fentanyl utilization, alongside a clear understanding of the evident indicators and manifestations of an overdose. According to Bachyrycz et al. (2019), it is imperative for healthcare professionals to actively encourage patients and their families to obtain naloxone and receive comprehensive education regarding its associated risks. This proactive approach is crucial in mitigating the potential for harm. In order to optimize the treatment of high-risk patients, healthcare professionals must know the indicative symptoms of opioid addiction (Altekruse et al., 2020). In order to ensure comprehensive treatment for individuals with drug use disorders, it is imperative to establish collaborative partnerships with other healthcare professionals (Bachyrycz et al., 2019). By acquiring a comprehensive comprehension of fentanyl and opiate dependence, PMHNPs possess the potential to optimize patient outcomes while mitigating the hazards linked to the utilization of opioids.
The Word on the Street
For this assignment, I have decided to look into fentanyl. Fentanyl is a powerful opioid produced in a lab and is highly addictive; it is frequently used as a substitute for heroin because its effects are equal to those of heroin, and its cost is much lower. It can be used orally as pills, topically as patches, or inhaled as a nasal spray (Bluelight, 2023). It is possible to use fentanyl without risk when given to you, but misusing the prescription puts you at risk for terrible side effects, including deadly overdoses, because even a minimal amount of the substance can be fatal. Drug traffickers frequently combine fentanyl with other psychoactive substances, which can result in unintended overdoses. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (2023), misuse of fentanyl is a significant problem that plays a role in the nearly 70,000 opioid-related deaths that occur yearly in the United States.
The relationship between compassionate language and substance use disorder.
Patients may experience a diminished desire to seek treatment for drug use disorders if exposed to stigmatizing language. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) guides appropriate terminology and recommended omissions when discussing the topic of addiction. In order to mitigate stigma and promote a trusting relationship between the practitioner and the client, it is recommended to employ respectful and person-centered language such as “individual with a substance use problem” instead of derogatory terms like “addict” or “junkie” (National Institute on Drug Abuse, 2021). Speaking with compassion can potentially enhance patients’ comfort in seeking assistance, thereby ultimately contributing to improved treatment outcomes.
Reflecting on the Relevance of Compassionate Language
Approaching individuals with substance use disorders in a knowledgeable but nonjudgmental manner may increase treatment outcomes. For example, suppose I avoid using colloquial terms such as “junkie” and “addict” during initial client interactions. In that case, likely, they will promptly discern my commitment to treating their condition with due seriousness. This methodology is expected to enhance patient involvement in therapeutic interventions and mitigate the sense of stigma or judgment experienced by patients. Compassionate language will make establishing trust with the clients simpler, which is essential for treating drug use disorders.
How the information on fentanyl can assist me in becoming a better PMHNP provider
As a PMHNP doctor, knowing fentanyl and the ability to communicate with patients using empathy could make the management of patients struggling with drug use disorders more successful. It is possible that knowing fentanyl can assist PMHNP doctors in the correct administration of the medication, in informing patients and their family members about the risks associated with fentanyl use, and in identifying patients who may be at a higher risk of misusing opioids (Bachyrycz et al., 2019). Compassionate communication can boost patient engagement, cultivate trust, and improve the overall outcome of therapy.
Conclusion
In conclusion, PMHNP practitioners must possess comprehensive knowledge regarding the range of addictive medications, with a specific focus on fentanyl and the impact these substances exert on individuals’ cognitive and physiological aspects. The dissemination of information regarding the potential hazards linked to the utilization of fentanyl is a crucial responsibility for healthcare professionals as it pertains to patients and their respective family members. Engaging in such actions will mitigate the detrimental social perceptions surrounding substance abuse and foster an environment conducive to cultivating trust. Healthcare practitioners can employ the earlier data and terminology to encourage heightened patient involvement, cultivate confidence, and improve therapeutic results.
References
Altekruse, S. F., Cosgrove, C. M., Altekruse, W. C., Jenkins, R. A., & Blanco, C. (2020). Socioeconomic risk factors for fatal opioid overdoses in the United States: Findings from the Mortality Disparities in American Communities Study (MDAC). PLOS ONE, 15(1), e0227966. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0227966
Bachyrycz, A., Takeda, M. Y., Wittstrom, K., & Bleske, B. (2019). Opioid overdose response training in pharmacy education: An analysis of students’ perception of naloxone use for opioid overdose prevention. Currents in Pharmacy Teaching and Learning, 11(2), 166-171. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cptl.2018.11.007
Bluelight. (2023). About us: Forum. Bluelight.org. http://bluelight.org/
National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2021, November 29). Words matter Terms to use and avoid when talking about addiction. National Institute on Drug Abuse.
NU 643 Week 11 Assignment 1
Week 11 Assignment 1: Exploration of Bluelight
Grading Category: Assignments
Overview
- Go to BlueLight Discussion Forums.
- This is a site where addicted individuals share information about drugs of abuse. including the misuse of many prescription drugs.
- Browse and research a recreational or prescription drug.
- Reflect on your findings in a brief summary (about 1–2 pages long).
- What is “the word on the street?”
- Did anything about this surprise you?
- Now reflect on how this information can assist you at being a better PMHNP provider.
- Next, read the following information about rehabilitative language and compassion: Words Matter – Terms to Use and Avoid When Talking About Addiction.
- Reflect on how having an educated but non-judgmental perspective toward your patient’s facing substance use disorder could improve outcomes.
- Now reflect on how this information can assist you at being a better PMHNP provider.
Instructions
- Your paper should be three to five pages in length, excluding the title and reference pages.
- Include a minimum of four evidence-based practice guidelines or articles.
- Make sure your paper is conformed to the most recent APA standards.
Please refer to the Grading Rubric for details on how this activity will be graded.
The described expectations meet the passing level of 80 percent. Students are directed to review the Discussion Grading Rubric for criteria that exceed expectations.
Week 11: Learning Materials
Done: View
Readings
- Stahl, S. (2021). Essential psychopharmacology: Neuroscientific Basis and Practical Applications(5th ed.). Cambridge University Press.
- Chapter 13, “Impulsivity, Compulsivity, and Addiction”
- Stahl, S. (2020). Essential psychopharmacology: The prescriber’s guide (7th ed.). Cambridge University Press. (Reference as needed.)
- Volkon, N., Koob, G., and McLellan, A. (2016). Neurobiological Advances from the Brain Disease Model of Addiction. The New England Journal of Medicine, .
Week 11: Note-taking Tool
The Note-taking Tool Week 11 is a web-based study tool that provides helpful thoughts and questions to help you focus and master the course materials throughout this module. It is important to reference the Note-taking Tools (which are printable and downloadable) as you do your readings each week so that you are prepared for quizzes in this course.
Required Videos
Impulsivity, Compulsivity, Addiction Lecture 1 (23 minutes and 27 seconds)
Impulsivity, Compulsivity, Addiction Lecture 1 Transcript
Impulsivity, Compulsivity, and Addiction, Lecture 2 (7 minutes and 37 seconds)
Impulsivity, Compulsivity, and Addiction, Lecture 2 Transcript
Dopamine and Reward (2:17 minutes)
Dopamine and Reward Video Transcript
Alcohol Withdrawal (0:59 minutes)
Alcohol Withdrawal Video Transcript
Clinical Resources
Required Resources
Clinical Resources