Strategic Preventive Initiative Launched in Rhode Island

While you may not have felt the earth tremble, the launch of the Rhode Island Nurses’ Association Substance Abuse Prevention Program on September 23^rd created what may ultimately prompt a seismic shift in the minds and hearts of Rhode Island nurses.  The state-of-the-art toolkit unveiled in Providence was designed with the lofty goal of preventing substance use disorders in nurses. 

Rather than utilizing the passive approach of merely identifying and responding to nurses with such disorders, the components of the toolkit are aimed at identification and reduction of risky behaviors and situations in nurses and student nurses prior to the advent of any serious difficulties with substance use.

The event featured a screening of the unforgettable DVD produced by the American Association of Nurse Anesthetists, titled “About Wellness” as well as presentations from three dynamic nurses who were vital to the formation of the program.  Having been invited to wrap-up the day’s activities placed me at the epicenter of an endeavor which in this writer’s opinion is long overdue since over fifty percent of nurses with a substance use disorder identify that the issue began during or prior to nursing school.  (Coleman, 1997.)

As nurses, we are graced with many opportunities to witness “light-bulb moments” we have provoked in our patients through health education; instances of crystal clarity which generate an “AH-HA!” flash in the eyes of those we care for.  Being able to partake in this monumental venture and watch numerous light-bulbs flash through the minds of those in attendance was truly a privilege I will always remember.  

Paula

Coleman, E. A., Honeycutt, G., Ogden, B., McMillan, D. E., O’Sullivan, P. S., Light, K., & Wingfield, W.  (1997).  Assessing substance abuse among health care student and the efficacy of educational interventions.  Journal of Professional Nursing, 13(1), 28-37.