Opioid Abuse: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Care

Opioid use disorder (OUD) continues to be a public health crisis in the United States, with rising rates of addiction, overdose, and related fatalities. This 1-hour CE course is designed for Registered Nurses (RNs) in New Jersey and provides a comprehensive understanding of opioid abuse, its underlying mechanisms, and the best practices for treatment and care. The course equips nurses with the skills to recognize the signs and symptoms of opioid abuse, use evidence-based screening tools, and implement appropriate interventions. Participants will explore various treatment strategies, including pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches, such as Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), behavioral therapies, and harm reduction practices.

Additionally, this course emphasizes a holistic, compassionate approach to care that addresses the psychosocial needs of individuals and their families affected by OUD. Nurses will gain practical knowledge to support recovery, reduce stigma, and promote patient safety while meeting state-mandated continuing education requirements. By the end of the course, learners will be empowered to play a proactive role in combating the opioid crisis and advocating for those impacted by addiction.

Educational Objectives

• Define opioid use disorder (OUD) and understand its pathophysiology.
• Identify risk factors, signs, and symptoms of opioid abuse.
• Utilize evidence-based screening tools for OUD assessment.
• Implement pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatment strategies.
• Provide holistic care and support to patients and their families.

Who Should Take This Course

• Registered Nurses (RNs) in New Jersey are required to complete opioid abuse-related CE.
• Nurses working in emergency departments, addiction clinics, primary care, pain management, or community health.
• Healthcare professionals seeking to deepen their understanding of opioid use disorder and its treatment.
• Nurse educators and supervisors are responsible for training staff on substance use protocols.

Did You Know?

• New Jersey reported over 2,800 suspected opioid overdose deaths in 2022 alone. [NJ Office of the Attorney General, 2023]
• Nurses are often the first point of contact for individuals with substance use disorders, making their role in early intervention vital.
• Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) has been shown to cut the mortality rate of opioid addiction by more than half. [NIDA, 2021]
• The CDC reports that nearly 40% of opioid overdose deaths involve a prescription opioid. [CDC, 2023]
• Effective education on opioid abuse significantly reduces stigma and improves patient engagement in treatment. [Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration]