The Opioid Epidemic

The Opioid Epidemic is organized by AchieveCE. This course has been approved for a maximum of 2.0 Contact Hours.

Target Audience
• Nursing
• Registered Nurse (RN)
• Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN)
• Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
• Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)

Activity overview:
This course discusses what opiates and opioids are, the prevalence of drug abuse and drug-related deaths in the US, withdrawal, symptoms and treatment.

Learning Objectives:
At the conclusion of this continuing education activity, the participant will be able to:
• Discuss the increasing prevalence of opioids in drug abuse and drug-related deaths in the United States
• Distinguish the difference between opiates and opioids
• Name examples of opioids, both natural and synthetic
• Identify the primary factor contributing to the rise of opioid abuse in the United States
• Name the new diagnosis designated to opioid abuse and/or dependence in the DSM V
• Identify signs of opioid abuse
• Identify signs of opioid overdose
• Discuss opioid withdrawal and identify likely signs of this
• Name the three symptoms signs found in the opioid overdose triad
• Discuss the initial treatment of an opioid overdose