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Managing Heroin Addiction in an Outpatient Setting: A Case Study
Journal of Gerontological Nursing
|November 24, 2015
Summary
Heroin use is often overlooked in older adults, particularly Baby Boomers. This article offers guidance for nurses to identify heroin addiction and support recovery in geriatric patients.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Addiction Medicine
- Nursing Practice
Background:
- Baby Boomers represent a significant demographic with a history of drug use.
- Heroin addiction may persist into older adulthood for some individuals.
- Older adults with heroin use may present for care due to related health issues.
Observation:
- Nurses may encounter older adults with heroin use, often presenting with co-occurring conditions.
- Healthcare providers may lack adequate preparation to address heroin addiction in geriatric populations.
- Identifying heroin use in older adults requires specific knowledge and skills.
Findings:
- This article provides a case example to illustrate the challenges of heroin use in older adults.
- It offers guidance on recognizing signs of heroin addiction in this population.
- Essential information on heroin use and resources for specialized care are included.
Implications:
- Improved recognition and management of heroin use in older adults are crucial.
- Nurses require enhanced training to effectively care for geriatric patients with substance use disorders.
- Facilitating access to expert care can improve recovery outcomes for older adults with heroin addiction.
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