Have you got an attitude problem? Caring for illicit drug-using patients

The use of illicit drugs in an environment of prohibition results in major health risks to the drug-using population. Substantial morbidity and mortality in this group is identified as a priority area for public health action. Undergraduate nursing programs prepare students to manage clinical emergencies resulting from drug use, to undertake health promotion activities in a harm minimization policy environment, and to provide appropriate community referral. It is a cause for concern, therefore, that a group of senior undergraduate nursing students express negative perceptions of a drug-using individual's personality and behaviour. It is imperative that undergraduate nurse educators find ways to challenge student attitudes from the first semester of their program. Nurses in the clinical setting must display professional values that emphasize the dignity and worth of all individuals. They have an opportunity to make a difference to the health outcomes of this marginalized group of health consumers.