Abstract

The topic of substance-abuse has received increasing attention in recent years, as the number of individuals experiencing drug abuse and addiction is on the rise. With substance-use on the rise, the number of patients admitted to the hospital with this disorder is increasing also. It is important hospital staff are aware and educated on how to provide adequate care to these patients without judgement regarding their choices or their lifestyle. This study was done to determine how prepared nursing students are to care for patients with drug abuse or addiction. Specifically, the project explores student nurses' attitudes and commitment toward substance- abusing patients.

The 20 item Drug and Drug Problem Perceptions Questionnaire (DDPPQ) was used to measure attitudes and therapeutic commitment in working with drug-abusing patients, and was distributed electronically to approximately 400 nursing students. One hundred thirty-one students participated. Scores ranged from 22-102, with the smaller value representing greater overall commitment and preparedness when working with substance-abusing patients. The mean score reported overall was 58. This score indicates improvement is needed to increase students' therapeutic commitment and ability to provide quality care for patients experiencing substance- abuse. More research needs to be done and programs put into place to reach this goal.

Thesis Completion

2018

Semester

Summer

Thesis Chair/Advisor

Allred, Kelly

Co-Chair

Valenti, Michael

Degree

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.)

College

College of Nursing

Department

Nursing

Location

Orlando (Main) Campus

Language

English

Access Status

Open Access

Length of Campus-only Access

1 year

Release Date

2-1-2020

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