Response by author Susan G. Painter to April Hardy on “Opiate Crisis and Healthcare Reform in America: A Review for Nurses” (May 31, 2017)
Thank you, April Hardy, for your thoughts and plan of action in changing nursing care and support provided to substance users. I agree with your thoughts that change starts with the nursing profession, and education is key. Another issue I see is nurses being unsure of how to handle these conversations, as well as how to effectively treat withdrawal. Many times, because of the uncertainty, patients suffer by being under medicated, and subsequently further their medical complications as a result. Each step toward education and understanding will affect our efforts toward change.Sincerely,
Sue Painter
