Presented by J. Arzaga, MSN, RN SUBSTANCE ABUSE http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=EUDJXQNP9yg
SUBSTANCE ABUSE Self-administration of a drug in a manner that does not conform to the norms within the patient’s own culture and society Substance abuse vs. drug abuse
Overwhelming compulsion ADDICTION Overwhelming compulsion Repetitive drug-taking behavior despite serious health and social consequences
CAUSES OF ADDICTION User-related factors: genetic, personality, past experience, disorders Environmental factors: social norms, peers, educational opportunities Impossible to accurately predict if person will become substance abuser
ADDICTION Therapeutic use of a scheduled drug rarely causes addiction when used according to accepted medical protocol. Prescription drugs have potential for abuse
PSYCHOLOGICAL DEPENDENCE No obvious physical discomfort when substance discontinued Overwhelming desire to continue substance use Associated with home environment or social contacts
PSYCHOLOGICAL DEPENDENCE Craving continues for months or years Craving responsible for relapse
PHYSICAL DEPENDENCE Altered physical condition caused when nervous system adapts to repeated substance use Uncomfortable symptoms result when the agent is discontinued – known as withdrawal
Tremors, fatigue, and anxiety Abdominal cramping and hallucinations ALCOHOL Tremors, fatigue, and anxiety Abdominal cramping and hallucinations Confusion, seizures, and delirium tremens
BARBITURATES & SIMILAR SEDATIVE-HYPNOTICS Insomnia, anxiety, weakness, and abdominal cramps Tremor, anorexia, and seizures Skin-hypersensitivity reactions Hallucinations and delirium
Insomnia, restlessness, abdominal pain, and nausea BENZODIAZEPINES Insomnia, restlessness, abdominal pain, and nausea Sensitivity to light and sound Headache, fatigue, and muscle twitches
Mental depression and anxiety Extreme fatigue and hunger COCAINE & AMPHETAMINE Mental depression and anxiety Extreme fatigue and hunger
HALLUCINOGENS & MARIJUANA Rarely Observed Dependent upon specific drug Irritability and restlessness Insomnia and tremors Chills and weight loss
NICOTINE Irritability, anxiety, and restlessness Headache, increased appetite, and insomnia Inability to concentrate Decrease in heart rate and blood pressure
OPIOIDS Excessive sweating, restlessness, and dilated pupils Agitation, goose bumps, tremor, and violent yawning Increased heart rate and blood pressure Nausea/vomiting and abdominal cramps and pain Muscle spasms and weight loss
NURSING Prevention, Diagnosis, Treatment Thorough medical history must include substance abuse if present Be firm in disapproving of substance abuse, yet compassionate in trying to help the patient receive treatment Attempt to involve family members when possible
NURSING HIV infection Hepatitis Tuberculosis