Substance Abuse (Chronic Alcohol Abuse, Chronic Drug Abuse) for Progressive Care Certified Nurse (PCCN)

Substance Abuse (Chronic Alcohol Abuse, Chronic Drug Abuse)

Definition/Etiology:

• N/A

Pathophysiology:

• Drug/Alcohol Use/Intoxications:
  • Marijuana/cannabis-substances
  • K2, spice, bath salts
  • Barbiturates, benzos, hypnotics
  • Meth, cocaine, stimulants
  • Club drugs
  • Hallucinogens
  • Inhalants
  • Opioid painkillers

Noticing: Assessment & Recognizing Cues:

• Symptoms of Long-term use:
  • Drinking/using drug excessively
  • Cannot decrease intake when trying to
  • Drug/alcohol affects life commitments
  • Physical health concerns
  • Disheveled 
• Emergency:
• • Overdose
  • AMS
  • Respiratory depression
  • Seizure
  • Heart attack

Interpreting: Analyzing & Planning:

• Blood Alcohol Level
• Drug Screen
• Physical concerns
  • Blood work
  • Diagnostics

Responding: Patient Interventions & Taking Action:

• Withdrawal therapy
• Behavior therapy
• Self-help groups
• Ongoing treatment program

Reflecting: Evaluating Patient Outcomes:

• In “Recovery” for life
• More engaged with life
• Mending relationships
• Continued support

Linchpins (Key Points):

• Uppers make symptoms go up.
• Downers make symptoms go down.