The role of the psychiatric nurse in a community substance abuse prevention program

There is an increasing awareness of the need for prevention of substance abuse related problems. The psychiatric nurse is especially equipped to strengthen the bonds among citizens and parents, health agencies and schools, law enforcement and hospitals to assist the community in the design and implementation of its own prevention program. The nurse is able to facilitate the community's own vested interests in a manner congruent with its needs. The nature and scope of nursing practice have traditionally included responses to health-conducive behavior. The nurse emphasizes self-determination and choice in health matters; therefore, substance abuse prevention efforts are likely to be incorporated by the community. The nurse provides the knowledge of addiction and abuse and assists the community in its health enhancement by using addiction and nursing theory, interpersonal process, research competencies, and teaching skills.